Reviewed by: Dr Nikita Toshi
Disclaimer: Informative, not prescriptive.
Thalassemia is a blood disorder characterized by very low levels of hemoglobin. This can be inherited from one or both parents.
A person can have a thalassemia trait, major or minor depending on the type of inheritance from one or both parents. Beta or alpha types depend on the chain of hemoglobin affected.
Low hemoglobin in thalassemia major leads to weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, palpitations, pale skin and more
Enlarged spleen, weak bones, weak immunity
People with thalassemia minor may not present the symptoms but can still pass on the traits to their children
Frequent blood transfusions along with other medicines are often advised to maintain hemoglobin levels
Prevention is not possible in most cases. Pre-marital screening of both partners and genetic counseling can help people identify the chances of passing thalassemia traits to their children.