Hemophilia is a rare genetic disorder that affects a person’s ability to produce sufficient blood-clotting proteins or clotting factors. Consequently, the blood does not clot properly, making the individual more susceptible to bleeding and complications. The severity of the condition is related to the amount of these clotting factors, with lower levels increasing the risk of bleeding. Symptoms of hemophilia typically appear between 8 to 36 months, depending on the severity of the condition.

Frequent bleeding from the gums and nosebleeds
Those with a mild form of hemophilia tend to experience frequent bruising of the gums or the mucous membranes of the nose. Because of this, there are frequent instances of gum bleeding or nosebleeds. This type of bleeding lasts only for a short while in most cases. But in some cases, the bleeding can be too severe and require emergency medical care.

Severe bleeding after an injury or surgery
Extreme and uncontrollable bleeding during surgery or after an injury generally occurs in the cases of mild or moderate hemophilia. In most cases where diagnosis of hemophilia has not yet happened, this symptom is encountered accidentally. The unusual bleeding leads to further tests and examinations, often pointing to hemophilia. In severe cases, the bleeding can be spontaneous and occur with a tiny bruise or during minor procedures such as tooth extraction. Something as simple as taking a flu shot may also cause excessive bleeding.

Swollen joints
In severe cases of hemophilia, inflammation may develop in the joints. This generally occurs due to internal bleeding. The blood starts to seep into the deep tissues and joints. This causes swelling and limits the range of motion of the affected joints. This generally occurs in the joints of the ankles, knees, and elbows.

Hematuria
When blood appears in the urine, the condition is known as hematuria. It is a generally observed symptom among young children and adults who have a severe form of hemophilia. Hematuria occurs when there is internal bleeding in the urinary system. Depending on the amount of blood leaking into the urine, the color may appear pink, brown, or red. Sometimes, the change in the color of the urine is so negligible that it is visible only through urine tests.

Melena
In certain cases of hemophilia, internal bleeding may occur in the digestive or gastrointestinal tract. Due to this, blood starts to leak into the stool. As a result, the stool appears dark or black. This condition is known as melena or hematochezia. In addition, a foul odor may be observed while passing stool. This usually happens in very severe cases.

Headaches
This symptom can occur due to various causes, which may not be as severe as hemophilia. However, headache indeed occurs due to hemophilia. It is mostly due to intracranial bleeding. The headache is generally accompanied by stiffness in the neck, seizures, excessive drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and double vision. If a person experiences these symptoms, it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible.