Hematology is the study of blood related diseases. It involves treating diseases that affect the production of blood and its components, such as blood cells, hemoglobin, and blood proteins. Hematologists also conduct studies in oncology—the medical treatment of cancer.
Common Blood Disorders
The most common blood disorders are anemia, immunodeficiency, clotting or bleeding disorders, leukemia / lymphoma and bone marrow disorders.
Anemia – the lack of enough healthy red blood cells. This causes a lack of oxygen to your body’s cells.
Immunodeficiency – is when your immune system lacks the ability to fight off infectious diseases.
Clotting or Bleeding Disorders – is when your blood lacks in the amount of platelets or when your platelets aren’t working properly
Leukemia – is a cancer of the blood forming tissues that results in abnormal white blood cells.
Bone Marrow Disorders – is a problem with the stem cells in the bone marrow
Symptoms of blood disorders
Anemia – Fatigue, pale skin, hair problems, neurological problems, ice cravings, headache or shortness of breath with exertion.
Immunodeficiency – Recurrent infections, fevers, or night sweats.
Platelet Disorders – Abnormal bruising, small red spots on the skin, or abnormal bleeding.
Clotting Disorders – Blood clots, early strokes, bleeding, or heart attacks.
Leukemia / Bone Marrow Disorder – fatigue, infections, or bruising.
Blood Tests
Blood tests can give great insight into any deficiencies or over production of components in the blood. The most common blood test is a Complete Blood Count (CBC). Blood tests may be given to review overall health, diagnose a condition, monitor a medical condition, or to monitor treatment. It is common to receive a blood test if you are experiencing weakness, fatigue, bruising or bleeding.
