Taking care of a child who is suffering from thalassemia can be challenging. Especially when you are a new parent and caregiver. Thalassemia patients need proper care and medical support because of their chronic nature. But if you have proper knowledge about the diseases, then you are able to give your child a healthy and better life.
The most integrated part for keeping them healthy is daily regimens, frequent hospital visits, and emotional support. In this blog, we will post simple tips and good advice that can make things a little easier. If you’re just beginning or searching for how to care better, this guide is here to guide you every step of the way.
Important Tips You Should Keep In Mind
Thalassemia refers to a blood disorder that happens when the body isn’t making enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin can be found in RBCs (Red Blood Cells), which transport oxygen all over the body. Doctors and researchers found that individuals suffering from thalassemia have less hemoglobin than an ordinary person. It makes them weak and tired all the time. Let’s see what parents and caregivers can do for their children:
1. Ensure Timely Transfusions and Medication
Blood transfusions are extremely crucial in thalassemia patients. Skipping them would result in weakness or severe health issues. Always administer drugs based on the prescriptions of the doctor.
2. Follow the Proper Treatment Schedule/Calendar
Mark transfusion, doctor appointment, and medication dates on a calendar, book, or app to prevent confusion and stay up-to-date.
3. Collaborate with Pediatric Specialists and Hematologists
A specialist knows more about thalassemia and treats it accordingly. Meet them often and ask anything without hesitation.
4. Have a Medical Background and All Lab Results on File
You have to keep important files or records, like blood work, transfusion records, and physician notes. This makes the physicians aware of the patient’s progress and enables them to make better treatment decisions.
5. Watch for Iron Overload or Other Side Effects
It can bring additional iron into the body with the help of an excess transfusion. Inform the doctor if you find any problems, like fatigue, pain, or swelling.
Nutrition and Daily Care for Thalassemia Patients
Thalassemia requires greater attention to food consumption and daily routines. A good regime can condition the body to become robust and manage symptoms better. The following are some easy tips for handling daily life:
- Avoid Iron Foods: As excess iron is not good for the body, stay away from foods with excess iron, like iron-fortified foods. Opt for fresh vegetables, fruits, milk, and whole grains that are not rich in iron naturally.
- Use Vitamin C Only When Unavoidable: Vitamin C causes the absorption of iron, so it must be done under a doctor’s supervision, typically with iron-removal therapy. In no way use vitamin C on your own.
- Eat Light and Drink Plenty of Water: Provide energy to the body with little, light meals throughout the day. Dal, rice, sautéed vegetables, fruits, and milk are light and comfortable for the body. Water cleanses toxins and keeps the body fresh.
- Hygiene and Rest: Clean surroundings, hand washing, and rest give immunity from infections. It is necessary since even small illnesses become bothersome for a patient of thalassemia.
Stick to Doctor’s Advice: Take the daily dosage of medicines and supplements as advised. Regular blood tests and check-ups for keeping a watch on the iron levels and general health.
