Von Willebrand disease
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a bleeding disorder. It means your blood does not clot as it should because you are missing or have too little of a protein called von Willebrand factor. This protein helps your blood stick together to stop bleeding.
Key facts
- It is the most common inherited bleeding disorder.
- It affects both men and women, though women may have more noticeable symptoms due to heavy periods.
- Most cases are mild, and many people do not know they have it until a challenge like surgery or a dental procedure.
Von Willebrand disease is the most common inherited bleeding disorder. It affects about 1 in every 100 to 1 in every 10,000 people, depending on the type.
It can affect anyone, regardless of sex or ethnicity. People with a family history of bleeding problems are more likely to have it.
Symptoms
- Bleeding that does not stop after applying firm pressure for 10 minutes.
- Coughing up or vomiting bright red blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
- Blood in stool (red or black, tarry).
- Severe headache, vision changes, or confusion – these can be signs of bleeding in the brain.
- Heavy bleeding from an injury that soaks through a bandage quickly.
- Bleeding that makes you feel dizzy, faint, or short of breath.
- ⚠Menstrual bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours.
- ⚠Nosebleed that lasts more than 10 to 20 minutes despite pinching the nose.
- ⚠Bleeding after a dental extraction that continues for more than a few hours.
- ⚠Blood in urine or unexpected bleeding from the rectum.
Common symptoms
- Easy bruising – bruises may appear larger than normal from minor bumps.
- Frequent or long-lasting nosebleeds.
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding (periods that last more than 7 days or soak through pads/tampons quickly).
- Prolonged bleeding after cuts, dental work, or surgery.
- Bleeding from gums or after toothbrushing.
Symptoms in children
- Excessive bruising from normal play or falls.
- Frequent nosebleeds that are hard to stop.
- Bleeding after losing a baby tooth or from a small cut that takes a long time to stop.
- Bleeding in the mouth or gums.
Symptoms in older adults
- Bleeding after minor surgery or invasive procedures, such as tooth extraction.
- Joint bleeding (pain, swelling, stiffness) that can happen after injury.
- Easy bruising that might be mistaken for other conditions.
Causes
Main causes
- A change (mutation) in the gene that makes von Willebrand factor. This is usually inherited from one or both parents.
- In rare cases, the condition can develop later in life due to other medical problems (acquired von Willebrand disease).
Risk factors
- Having a family member with von Willebrand disease or other bleeding disorders.
- Certain conditions like thyroid disorders, heart valve disease, or some cancers can rarely cause acquired VWD.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Any kind of heavy or uncontrolled bleeding, especially after an injury.
- Dizziness, weakness, or feeling faint from bleeding.
- Symptoms from the emergency list above.
Book a routine appointment if:
- You or your child bruise easily and you are not sure why.
- You have heavy periods or nosebleeds that bother you.
- You have a family history of bleeding problems and you want to know your risk.
Diagnosis
A doctor, often a specialist in blood disorders (hematologist), will take your medical and family history, ask about bleeding symptoms, and order blood tests.
Tests that may be done
- Von Willebrand factor antigen test (measures the amount of the protein).
- Von Willebrand factor activity test (checks how well the protein works).
- Factor VIII test (another clotting protein that is often low in VWD).
- Complete blood count (CBC) and platelet function tests to rule out other issues.
- Genetic testing may be done in some cases to confirm the type.
What to expect at your appointment
You may need to have blood tests repeated more than once. von Willebrand factor levels can vary day to day or with stress, illness, or pregnancy. Your doctor will correlate test results with your symptoms to make a diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and severity of von Willebrand disease. The goal is to prevent or control bleeding. Many people with mild disease need little or no daily treatment, only special care before surgery or after injury.
Self-care at home
- Apply firm pressure and ice to cuts or nosebleeds for at least 10 minutes.
- Avoid medicines that make bleeding worse, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), unless your doctor says they are safe.
- Use a soft toothbrush and floss gently to prevent gum bleeding.
- Wear a medical ID bracelet or carry a card that explains your condition.
Medical treatments
There are several approaches doctors may use. One type is a medication that releases your body's own stored von Willebrand factor, given as a nasal spray or injection. Another is a medicine that helps protect a key clotting protein from breaking down. For severe or persistent bleeding, doctors may use clotting factor concentrates that contain von Willebrand factor and factor VIII, given through a vein. Your doctor will work with you to choose the best plan for your specific situation.
When is surgery considered?
If you have surgery or a dental procedure, tell your healthcare team about your VWD. They will likely give you treatment before and after the procedure to prevent excessive bleeding. This may include medications or factor concentrates.
Living with this condition
Learning to manage bleeds at home and knowing when to get help are important. Keep first aid supplies handy and inform family, friends, and school or work colleagues how to assist you.
Lifestyle tips
- Avoid contact sports or high-impact activities that may cause injury. Talk to your doctor about safe exercise options.
- Wear appropriate protective gear (helmets, padding) when cycling, skating, or doing any activity with fall risk.
- Inform all healthcare providers, including dentists and surgeons, about your VWD before any procedure.
Diet and exercise
Eat a balanced diet rich in iron to prevent anemia from blood loss (iron sources: red meat, leafy greens, beans). Stay physically active with low-risk activities like walking, swimming, or yoga. Avoid heavy weightlifting or sports where bruising is common.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Living with a chronic condition can cause worry or stress, especially about bleeding episodes. It’s normal to feel anxious at times. If these feelings interfere with daily life, talk to a mental health professional or join a support group. Remember you are not alone.
Prevention
Von Willebrand disease is genetic and cannot be prevented. However, you can take steps to avoid complications by knowing your diagnosis and planning ahead for surgery, dental work, or injuries.
Vaccines
Vaccinations are generally safe for people with VWD. Let the person giving the vaccine know you have a bleeding disorder so they can use a small needle and apply pressure afterward. Hepatitis A and B vaccines are especially recommended because of the risk from blood products.
Screening programmes
Screening is not routine for everyone. If you have a family history of bleeding problems, you may wish to ask your doctor about testing. Some people find out they have VWD when they have unusual bleeding after surgery or childbirth.
Complications
If left untreated
- Anemia from chronic blood loss, especially heavy menstrual periods.
- Joint damage from repeated bleeding into joints (rare in mild types).
- Prolonged or severe bleeding after injury or surgery that may require hospitalization and blood transfusions.
Long-term outlook
The outlook for most people with von Willebrand disease is very good. With proper management and treatment, you can lead an active, healthy life. Most people have a mild form that does not affect daily activities. Work closely with your healthcare team to stay well.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.