G6PD deficiency information for parents

G6PD helps red blood cells cope with chemical stress. With G6PD deficiency, an infection or particular medicine can cause haemolysis, when red cells break down too quickly. The child may become pale or yellow, unusually tired or short of breath, and urine may become dark. A child may be completely well between episodes. The diagnosis is not contagious, and it is not caused by parenting or ordinary activity.

Keep the diagnosis in school, nursery and medical records, and tell carers what symptoms to report. Before any prescription, pharmacy purchase or supplement, ask a clinician or pharmacist to check the ingredients. Keep the child's medicine list current and never share another person's medicine. During illness, encourage fluids as advised and follow the clinician's plan. Ask whether a Blood Test is needed for diagnosis or to check anaemia and bilirubin. Family members may wish to discuss their own history with a doctor.

Call the child's healthcare team promptly if there is yellowing, Pale Skin, dark urine, unusual sleepiness, weakness, fast breathing or reduced activity. Use emergency services for severe breathing trouble, collapse, confusion, inability to wake the child or sudden deterioration. Take the medicine list and mention any recent illness or new product.

Ask for a written trigger list, an action plan for fever or infection, advice for school staff, instructions for testing, and guidance about siblings or future newborn care.