Haematology involves the study of blood and blood disorders. Our haematologists are highly trained specialists that focuses on the diagnosis, care and treatment on patients with diseases of the blood and blood-forming tissues in the body. This involves components such as red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), platelets (thrombocytes), bone marrow, and the organs involved in haematopoiesis (the process of blood cell formation), such as the spleen and the lymph nodes.
Managing your blood health is very important as blood plays a role in many important functions of our body, including transport of oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues, removal of waste products, clotting to prevent bleeding, and immunity against diseases.
It is important to catch the signs of blood disorders early, as it helps prevent the development of more serious conditions. Some examples of symptoms and signs that could point to presence of blood disorders are headaches, ruddy complexion, fatigue and weakness coupled with difficulty breathing, swollen lymph nodes, and abnormal/ prolonged bleeding.
Typically, during an appointment with your haematologist, after a physical examination, you may be required to do several bloods tests to determine the underlying conditions of blood disorders, such as complete blood count (CBC) including red blood cell tests (e.g., haemoglobin test, haematocrit test, reticulocyte count), white blood cell tests and platelet tests (e.g., platelet count, mean platelet volume test and peripheral blood smear), prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time.
Treatment of blood disorders generally include managing the symptoms and treating underlying conditions. Our haematologists can help you in managing your blood disorders and provide necessary treatments.
If you have concerns about your blood health, it is important to speak to your haematologist immediately.