Bleeding and clotting disorders are conditions that affect the way your blood forms clots. Normally, blood platelet cells stick together to plug a broken blood vessel. Proteins hold the platelets together as the blood vessel heals.

If you have a bleeding disorder, your blood may not clot because of low or abnormal platelets or clotting proteins. Even small injuries may result in excessive bleeding if you have a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia or Von Willebrand disease (both conditions affect the way your blood clots).

If you have a clotting disorder, your blood clots too easily. You may form clots even when you aren’t injured. These clots can be dangerous if they travel to your lungs, legs, or brain.

At University of Miami Health System, our experienced hematologists treat all types of bleeding and clotting disorders. We provide comprehensive care to help lower your risk for serious complications.

Tests

Genetic Testing
If you have a bleeding or clotting disorder, you may benefit from genetic testing or preconception counseling. These tests can reveal the cause of your disorder and help you understand your risk for passing it on to your children.

Blood Tests
Your doctor may take a blood sample to examine in a lab. The blood tests can reveal problems with clotting factor proteins or platelets.

Medical History
Your doctor will ask questions about your medical and family history that can help reveal the cause of clotting disorders.

Treatments

Clotting Factor Infusions
You may receive infusions of clotting factor or platelets to help prevent bleeding.

Desmopressin Injections (DDAVP)
These hormone injections can help improve clotting factors.

Plasma Infusions
Blood plasma infusions may also help improve clotting and prevent bleeding.

Antifibrinolytic Medicine
These medicines help your body maintain blood clots while you heal.

Fibrin Sealants
Fibrin sealants can be placed on cuts or wounds to help encourage blood clotting.

Physical Therapy
People with bleeding disorders may have internal bleeding that damages joints. Physical therapy can help with joint pain and flexibility.

Vaccinations
When you have blood transfusions, it is important to stay up-to-date on your immunizations to help protect you from possible infections.

Anticoagulant Medicines
Anticoagulant medicines help prevent blood from clotting, reducing your risk from complications of blood clotting disorders.

Why Choose UHealth?

Advanced, comprehensive hematology care. Our large team of expert hematologists provide the care you need to manage blood disorders and treat blood cancers. We offer convenient care — with treatment available at multiple locations — and use innovative, personalized treatments to help improve your health and quality of life.