Tell Me More about Von Willebrand Disease
Published on in Beyond Blood
Published on in Beyond Blood
Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a bleeding disorder caused by having too little von Willebrand factor (VWF) protein or VWF that doesn’t work well. VWF makes platelets stick together and carries the clotting factor VIII. VWD is the most common of all inherited bleeding disorders and occurs in males and females.
People with VWD can have prolonged bleeding, easy bruising and bigger bruises, nosebleeds,or bleeding with dental work or surgery. Girls often have heavy menstrual periods. Sometimes the symptoms are very mild, and some people with VWD do not even know they have it.
It can take a long time to diagnose VWD because the lab tests needed can vary with time and can be affected by many things, such as illness, hormones and stress. So, tests may be repeated a few times to be sure whether or not you have VWD.
There are three types of VWD, based on the amount of VW factor protein and how well it works. Often, additional tests are needed to determine the type of VWD a person has. Most people have type 1, which is the mildest type. Type 2 and type 3 are less common.
Treatment is important to prevent bleeding with any surgery, before pulling any teeth, and to help control heavy periods or nosebleeds. Treatment depends on the type of VWD, type of procedure, and location and amount of bleeding. Here are treatments and how they work:
Be sure to ask questions at your clinic appointment, or call the nurses any time. Our team of doctors, nurses and social workers are all here to help you. Just ask us!
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