How to Manage Sickle Cell Pain

Sickle Cell disease is a blood disorder that affects the red blood cells. These blood cells can sometimes become shaped like a sickle (crescent shape) and have difficulty passing through blood vessels. This is what causes pain in those affected by the disease. The pain associated with Sickle Cell disease is called a crisis. The pain most often appears in the extremities, chest area, abdomen and back. Some pain must be treated in a hospital setting, but many episodes of pain can be treated at home.

Instructions

• 1

  Drink more fluids. Increase fluid intake by at least 10 percent to help delay the "sickling" effect in the blood vessels that causes pain. Water is best, but juice, milk, soup, sports drinks and popsicles are also good for increasing hydration.

• 2

  Apply heat to the affected area. Many patients report a decrease in pain when warm heat is applied to the painful area. A warm soak in the tub is helpful as well.

• 3

  Massage the area. Massaging the painful area along with the application of heat can help with circulation. This may also lesson the severity of the pain.

• 4

  Take pain medicine. Take an oral analgesic prescribed by your doctor as directed.

• 5

  Rest. When you are experiencing a crisis, your body needs a lot of rest. Ensure you get plenty of sleep, at least eight hours a night.