Von Willebrand disease

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Von Willebrand disease is an inherited bleeding disorder that prevents blood from clotting properly. In this disease, a protein in the body's blood system (von Willebrand factor) is missing or does not work well, and the blood cells (platelets) cannot stick together normally to form clots at the site of bleeding.

Symptoms of von Willebrand disease may include excessive bleeding after injury, frequent nosebleeds, heavy menstrual flow, easy bruising, blood in the urine or stool, and bleeding from the gums.

Treatment focuses on preventing and stopping bleeding.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.