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Hemophilia is a disorder where the body does not make enough clotting factor—proteins in the blood that help the body stop bleeding—or the clotting factor the body does make is ineffective. People with hemophilia often bruise easily, and they may bleed for a longer period of time when they sustain a cut or injury. People with hemophilia are also at risk for internal bleeding. This can include bleeding in the joints, which is painful in the short term and can cause damage to the joints over time. In severe cases, hemophilia can cause bleeding in the brain (called intracranial hemorrhaging), which can be fatal and requires emergency medical treatment.
Given the potential complications of hemophilia, some people with the condition may wonder if it is safe to exercise, play sports or engage in other activities. The good news is that people with hemophilia are encouraged to exercise, and that many forms of sports and activities are safe for people with hemophilia.
