What is Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is a group of lifelong genetic disorders that often begin in early childhood. The most common type is sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell disease turns red blood cells into a distorted crescent shape. This makes blood cells break down rapidly, blocking blood flow. This deprives tissues of oxygen and sometimes causes organ damage. Sickle cell disease causes pain, repeated infections, shortness of breath and fatigue. The course of the disease varies greatly from person to person. Some have mild symptoms. Others often need hospitalization for more serious problems. Treatment may involve pain medication, blood transfusions, penicillin and/or other antibiotics, hydroxyurea, or bone marrow transplant.

 Symptoms of Sickle Cell Disease are-

Fever,Bleeding gums,Decreased urination,Dry mouth,Increased thirst,Shortness of breath,Joint pain,Erectile dysfunction,Swelling,Cough,Diarrhea,Easy bleeding,Nausea or vomiting,Partial vision loss,Blindness

Treatment

Treatment options differ depending on symptoms. Treatment may include:

1. Penicillin and/or other antibiotics
2. Blood transfusion
3. Hydroxyurea, a medication to help reduce pain crises
4. Bone marrow transplant, if disease is severe

Self Care

Get ongoing medical care and watch for signs of complications needing urgent care. Also, to stay as healthy as possible:

1. Take folic acid (folate) supplements daily to prevent anemia.
2. Drink plenty of water.
3. Avoid temperature extremes.
4. Manage stress, get plenty of rest, and avoid overexertion.

When to See Your Doctor

See a doctor if you or your child has symptoms of sickle cell disease. Seek immediate medical care if you or your child has fever or other signs of a serious infection, problems breathing, bone pain, unusual headache, chest pain, sudden loss of feeling or other signs of a stroke, sudden vision problem, rapid heartbeat, painful erection, sudden or increasing fatigue, or confusion.

Diagnosed By

A simple blood test (hemoglobin electrophoresis) can tell whether you or your child has the disease.