Sites of Bleeds

For people with mild, moderate, or severe FVII deficiency, bleeding may occur in all parts of the body. While each type of bleed may have different symptoms, all bleeds have in common the need for immediate attention. That's why it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of different types of bleeds.

For people with FVII deficiency, bleeds most frequently occur in the nose, gums, and intestines. Patients with FVII deficiency may also experience bleeds in joints, muscles or other body tissues, and the central nervous system (the brain or the spine).

Stomach and Intestinal Bleeding

Signs and symptoms of bleeding into the stomach or intestines:

  • Vomiting blood or black, syrup-like material (may look like coffee grounds)
  • Red or black bowel movements (may look like tar)
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Joint Bleeding

Joints are a common site of bleeds—especially the knees, elbows, and ankles. Bleeds can result from rough activity or can happen with no known cause.

Signs and symptoms of a joint bleed include:

  • A tingling or bubbling feeling in the joint
  • Not wanting to move the joint
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Pain (usually gets worse the longer the bleed is not treated)
  • Skin feels warmer over that joint
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Muscle Bleeding

Muscles are another common site for bleeds. Large muscles, like the ones in the thigh, back, hips, and belly, can hold a lot of blood before they start swelling, so the complications can be serious

Signs and symptoms of a muscle bleed include:

  • Pain or vague aching in the muscle
  • Limping
  • Unwillingness to use the affected arm or leg
  • Inability to put a heel on the floor when walking or standing
  • Limited mobility in the arm or leg
  • Swelling
  • Warmth at the bleeding site
  • Severe or shooting pains (indicates pressure on nerves)
  • Numbness or tingling (indicates pressure on nerves)
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Brain and Spinal Cord Bleeding

People with FVII deficiency should be aware of the possibility of severe hemorrhaging in the brain and spinal cord, which could result in disability or even death. When bleeding occurs in the brain or spinal cord, the buildup of blood can cause pressure and damage to the nerves that control bodily functions.

Signs and symptoms of bleeding in the head or brain include:

  • Headache that won't go away
  • No energy
  • Difficulty waking up
  • Trouble seeing; blurry vision
  • Difficulty walking straight
  • Bleeding from the ears or nose
  • Vomiting, dizziness, convulsions

Signs and symptoms of possible spinal cord bleeding include:

  • Weakness, tingling, or pain in arms or legs
  • Trouble with urination or bowel movements
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