The main way to prevent symptoms of G6PD deficiency from getting worse is to avoid the environmental triggers that can cause hemolytic anemia. Hemolytic anemia is when an individual has low amounts of red blood cells because their red blood cells have started to break down too early. This can be triggered by infections, certain medications, and certain foods such as fava beans. Avoiding these triggers, and treating infections promptly can help prevent the development of anemia. If there are too few red blood cells in the body, the person may have to have a blood transfusion to restore the number of red blood cells in the bloodstream.
If you have symptoms or would like to learn more about the genetics of G6PD deficiency, speak to your doctor about a referral to see a medical geneticist or a genetic counselor. In the U.S., you can find a medical geneticist at https://www.acmg.net/ACMG/Find_Genetic_Services/ACMG/ISGweb/FindaGeneticService.aspx?hkey=720856ab-a827-42fb-a788-b618b15079f9 on the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) website. In the U.S., you can find a genetic counselor near you by using the Find a Genetic Counselor Tool on the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) website.
Other Questions About Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
- Why does G6PD deficiency cause anemia?
- Who else in my family should have testing for G6PD deficiency?
- What type of sample should be taken for G6PD deficiency genetic testing?
- What treatment can help the symptoms of G6PD deficiency from getting worse?
- What is the usual abbreviation for G6PD deficiency?
