When people look in a mirror, they can sometimes see the traits their parents handed down to them genetically. But not all inherited traits are blessings, and some can harm you or your children if you pass them on. As a parent, you may want to investigate hereditary conditions to consult with your family about.
Intraocular Pressure
One hereditary condition is intraocular pressure, which is the fluid pressure in your eye that keeps it intact and operating properly. However, the pressure can rise too high, leading to optic nerve damage or even ocular hypertension. If you have family members who suffer from this condition, you should consult them and do your best to stay active, control your blood pressure, and avoid smoking to deter pressure issues.
Thalassemia
Another hereditary condition to consult with your family about is thalassemia, a blood disorder that parents can pass down to their children. This disorder lowers the amount of hemoglobin the human body produces and limits oxygen flow. Thalassemia can result in anemia, which doctors can treat with methods such as blood transfusions or Chelation therapy.
Cystic Fibrosis
Parents also can pass down cystic fibrosis to their children, which is a condition that causes difficulties with breathing and digestion. Due to this condition, the body produces thick mucus that causes airway and intestine blockages. Although the disease can cause more health problems, doctors can treat it with physical therapy, antibiotics, and other medicines.
Sickle Cell Anemia
Another inherited disorder that affects oxygen flow is sickle cell anemia, which changes the shape of red blood cells. This condition causes the cells to change from a round to a sickle shape, which can block blood flow and cause acute chest syndrome, organ damage, and infections. Doctors can treat the disorder through medications, blood transfusions, and a bone-marrow transplant.
If your family members have these conditions, it is a good idea to check with them and see if they are common throughout your family. You may not have them, but some research and investigation can also help you avoid passing them on to others.
