Understanding von Willebrand Disease: Do You Know the Signs?

Bleeding disorders occur more frequently than many people realize. The most common type of bleeding disorder, von Willebrand disease (VWD), is found in up to 1 percent of the population. Although VWD is equally common in men and women, symptoms can be more noticeable in women because of heavy bleeding during their menstrual periods and after childbirth.

What is VWD?

When you have VWD, your blood refuses to clot properly. Blood contains numerous proteins that help the body stop bleeding following a medical procedure or when you have an injury; one of these proteins is named von Willebrand factor (VWF). People with VWD have low levels of VWF or VWF that doesn't work properly. As a result, blood clots might take longer to form and bleeding may take longer to stop. VWD is almost always hereditary, meaning that it is passed down from a parent to a child.

There are three types of VWD. Type 1, in which people have unusually low levels of VWF, is the most common and least serious form of the disease. People with type 1 VWD may also have low levels of another kind of blood-clotting protein called factor VIII.

In type 2, the body makes the right amount of VWF but the protein doesn't work properly. Type 2 is divided into four subtypes, depending on the specific problem with your VWF. It is important to know which subtype you have, because each may require different treatment.

People with type 3 VWD have little or no VWF and low levels of factor VIII. This is considered the most severe form of the disease.

Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of VWD is important to ensure that you receive proper treatment and continue to live an active and fulfilling life. However, VWD can be tricky to diagnose. Those with type 1 VWD may never experience major bleeding problems unless they are in an accident, undergo surgery or dental procedures or have heavy bleeding with menstruation or childbirth. Women who experience heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, and who might have VWD, are often misdiagnosed with gynecological problems.

If your health care professional suspects that you have VWD, he or she will take a comprehensive medical history and perform a physical exam and a variety of blood tests. Your health care professional also might refer you to a hematologist (a doctor specializing in blood disorders) to confirm the diagnosis and provide follow-up care.

5 signs and symptoms

The signs of VWD vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. However, any of the following symptoms can be a signal to you and your provider.