What are the 3 types of von Willebrand disease?

Types of von Willebrand disease

  • type 1 – the mildest and most common type. People with type 1 VWD have a reduced level of von Willebrand factor in their blood.
  • type 2 – in people with this type of VWD, von Willebrand factor does not work properly.
  • type 3 – the most severe and rarest type.

How is von Willebrand disease different from hemophilia?

Like hemophilia, VWD is passed on through the genes from parent to child. But unlike hemophilia, men and women have an equal chance of getting VWD. It is possible for a person to have both von Willebrand Disease and hemophilia. Unlike hemophilia, people with VWD rarely bleed into their joints.

How is von Willebrand disease diagnosed?

To find out if a person has von Willebrand disease (VWD), the doctor will ask questions about personal and family histories of bleeding. The doctor also will check for unusual bruising or other signs of recent bleeding and order some blood tests that will measure how the blood clots.

Is von Willebrand an autoimmune disease?

While the more common types of von Willebrand’s disease are inherited, it is also possible to develop the condition from an autoimmune disease such as lupus or cancer, or as a result of taking some medications. This is called acquired von Willebrand’s disease.

Is von Willebrand disease life threatening?

Complications. Rarely, von Willebrand disease can cause uncontrollable bleeding, which can be life-threatening. Other complications of von Willebrand disease can include: Anemia.

Is von Willebrand disease a disability?

The condition is medically equal to a condition in the Listing of Impairments. If someone can prove that his or her von Willebrand disease is medically equal to any listing in the Listing of Impairments then that person may qualify for Social Security disability.

What is the life expectancy of someone with von Willebrand disease?

The life expectancy for people with VWD is normal. What’s more, some researchers are finding that mild VWD could be a health benefit. They explain it this way. Von Willebrand disease makes it more difficult for platelets to stick together.

Can von Willebrand disease go away?

Von Willebrand disease can’t be cured. But with treatment and self-care, most people with this disease can lead active lives.