What does a hematologist do?
Hematologists are medical doctors specializing in treating blood and bone marrow conditions. Hematologists diagnose and treat things like:
- Anemia - not enough healthy red blood cells.
- Hemophilia - a problem that decreases your blood clotting ability.
- Blood clotting disorders - conditions that change your ability to form clots. Sometimes blood clots too easily, and other times not enough.
- Leukemia - a type of cancer that affects the blood-forming organs.
What does a hematologist check for?
Hematologists check your blood and things that might change your blood counts. Specific tests your hematologist might order include:
- Complete blood count: This lab test measures the various types of blood cells, including levels that would show anemia.
- Prothrombin time: This measures how quickly your blood clots
- Bone marrow biopsy: This test can help determine if your bone marrow is making blood cells properly. It can also help diagnose and monitor some types of cancer.
Treatments that a hematologist might recommend for you might include:
- Blood transfusions
- Chemotherapy
- Bone marrow transplant
What questions will a hematologist ask?
Your hematologist will ask you many questions at your first visit. Things you’ll be asked include:
- Description of any symptoms you have
- Description of your current health
- Past medical and surgical history
- Any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements
- Family history
- What tests you’ve had and any other health care providers you see
- What you’ve been told about your diagnosis and treatment
Why would you be referred to a hematologist?
Your healthcare provider might refer you to a hematologist if they suspect you have a condition related to your blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system. Hematologists treat conditions such as:
- Anemia
- Clotting disorders
- Cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma
- Sepsis
- Hemophilia
- Sickle cell disease
Is it serious to be referred to a hematologist?
Blood diseases are often rare conditions and require the management of a specialist like a hematologist. Some conditions are serious, but others just need the expertise of a hematologist because they are less common diseases that regular healthcare providers do not have experience in treating.
What are the symptoms of blood disorders?
Symptoms will vary depending on which blood disorder you have, but some things you might experience include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Recurrent fever or infections
- Abnormal bleeding or bruising
- Swollen lymph nodes
If you have any symptoms that you worry about, discussing them with your healthcare provider is always best.
