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Hemoglobin H Disease
An alpha thalassemia that is caused by contiguous gene deletion of the hemoglobin alpha-1 (HBA1) and alpha-2 (HBA2) genes on one chromosome 16, and a defect, deletional or nondeletional, in either HBA1 or HBA2 on the oth
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Seek medical help right away if you have severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, chest pain, or any symptom that feels life-threatening. This community is for peer support and education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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Overview
Thalassemias are inherited blood disorders. If you have one, your body makes fewer healthy red blood cells and less hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen to the body. That leads to anemia. Thalassemias occur most often among people of Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern, Southern Asian, and African descent. Thalassemias can be mild or severe. Some people have no symptoms or mild anemia. The most common severe type in the United States is called Cooley's anemia. It usually appears during the first two years of life. People with it may have severe anemia, slowed growth and delayed puberty, and problems with the spleen, liver, heart, or bones. Doctors diagnose thalassemias using…
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Posts in this community reflect personal experiences, not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your treatment.