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Beta Thalassemia Symptoms

Beta thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder passed down from parents to children. It's most common among people of Greek, Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern and African descent. There are three types of beta thalassemia; minor, intermedia and major. Symptoms of beta thalassemia range from mild anemia to an enlarged heart. It is caused by a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream.

  1. Mild Symptoms

    • Some people with beta thalassemia are silent carriers and suffer from beta thalassemia minor. They do not have any symptoms but can have mild anemia. This type of thalassemia is often only noticed through regular blood tests and may be misdiagnosed as an iron deficiency. Treatment is not usually necessary.

    Moderate Symptoms

    • People who experience mild to moderate symptoms may have beta thalassemia intermedia. Symptoms of beta thalassemia intermedia can vary. There may be anemia, which can slow a child's growth and cause heart palpitations. The spleen may enlarge and need to be removed. Other symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, gallstones and yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice). Blood transfusions may be necessary. Beta thalassemia symptoms can be better managed and treated if diagnosed early and before any real problems occur.

    Severe Symptoms

    • Beta thalassemia major, also called Cooley's anemia, is a serious condition. Symptoms typically occur during the first two years of life and can include poor appetite, dark urine, listlessness, slowed growth, jaundice, bone problems, and an enlarged heart, spleen and liver. People with beta thalassemia major require lifelong blood transfusions to survive.

    Complications

    • Regular blood transfusions can cause iron to build up in the blood. This can damage the heart and cause heart attack, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and heart failure. Infections are another possible beta thalassemia complication. People who have had their spleen removed are especially at risk. The spleen fights infection; without it, the body is more susceptible to disease. People with beta thalassemia may also suffer from bone problems such as osteoporosis.

    Considerations

    • Beta thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder and cannot be prevented. However, it can be detected before birth with prenatal tests. Consult your doctor if you have a family history of thalassemia and are thinking of having children. Your doctor can help determine your risk of passing on the disease.

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