Categories: Hematologist

4 Important Reasons to Visit a Hematologist

If you are not familiar with the term, a hematologist is a doctor whose field of expertise encompasses all diseases and disorders related to blood. Being referred to a hematologist is not always a common occurrence, which is why it can sometimes worry patients.

Below are four important reasons you might be sent to the hematologist by your general practitioner.

1. Leukemia and lymphoma

Leukemia is a form of blood cancer where too many white blood cells are produced and they do not work correctly. They start to crowd out red blood cells and platelets, which are responsible for transporting blood and clotting blood, respectively.

Common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, sudden weight loss, easy bruising, fatigue, discomfort in the spleen (underneath the left lower ribs), visual problems and ear ringing. Visit a hematologist as soon as you can if you experience these symptoms.

Lymphoma is similar to leukemia in that it affects the white blood cells. However, the origin is different, as is the treatment. Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the lymphocytes, which are cells primarily devoted to fighting infection. If you have been feeling symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, coughing and swollen lymph nodes, it may be time to make an appointment.

A hematologist can help diagnose lymphoma and aid in treatments.

2. Sickle cell disease

Warning signs of sickle cell disease have much in common with anemia, including jaundice and fatigue. Sometimes there is also swelling in the extremities, usually the feet and hands. The disease is a genetic disorder, one that is most common in those of African and Hispanic ancestry.

If someone in the family has sickle cell disease and you experience any of these symptoms, it may be smart to visit the hematologist as soon as possible.

3. Hemophilia

Hemophilia is usually caused by a platelet deficiency that either slows or stops the blood from clotting all together. Common symptoms include bleeding from the gums, nosebleeds that seem to last a long time, joint swelling and any prolonged bleeding from small cuts or injuries.

A hematologist will suggest how to treat hemophilia, but there are hormones and clotting medications that can make the condition manageable.

4. Deep vein thrombosis

Essentially the opposite of hemophilia, deep vein thrombosis is a condition that occurs when a blood cot will not go away. Blood clots can sometimes form in the leg veins or elsewhere and end up stuck in the legs. Deep vein thrombosis is painful, but it can also cause damage over time, as areas are deprived of oxygen.

These blood clots can also detach and do serious damage when entering places like the lung or the heart. Common signs include unusual warmth, pain or red skin in the affected area. A hematologist will generally use compression stockings and blood thinners to help alleviate the situation.

Blood diseases are serious

Many blood diseases can be dangerous, which is why hematologist has such a difficult job. However, hematologists are experts at treating and healing these diseases, making them a vital step in the road to health.

Are you considering visiting a hematologist in the Marlton area? Get more hematologist information at https://lindenbergcancer.com.

Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center

Share
Published by
Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center

Recent Posts

Preparing for Chemotherapy Treatment: A Patient’s Guide

Facing chemotherapy treatment can be overwhelming, even if it is the right thing for your…

3 weeks ago

Choosing the Right Prostate Cancer Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide

The stage of the cancer determines the type of prostate cancer treatment the oncologist will…

3 weeks ago

How Anemia Affects Your Energy and Overall Health

Anemia can affect life in many ways, the most common of which is lowering energy.

3 weeks ago

Why You Need a Hematologist for Blood Disorder Treatment

A hematologist is specially trained to diagnose, treat, and manage blood disorders.

2 months ago

The Role of a Cancer Specialist in Your Treatment Journey

A cancer specialist manages the road on one's cancer journey from beginning to end.

2 months ago

Gastrointestinal Cancer Treatment Options: A Comprehensive Guide

Gastrointestinal cancer treatment requires a tailored and multifaceted approach to treating cancer affecting the digestive…

2 months ago