How to Cope With Sickle Cell in an Infant

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic condition that affects the shape of the red blood cells. Ordinarily, red blood cells should be round and flexible, but infants born with sickle cell anemia have red blood cells that are crescent shaped and stiff. The improperly shaped red blood cells get stuck within the vessels, causing pain crises and possibly even organ damage. Also, the red blood cells do not live as long as normal red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Sickle cell anemia mainly affects those infants of either African or Hispanic descent. However, it is also found in infants of Middle Eastern, Indian and Mediterranean ancestry.

Things You'll Need

• Pediatrician
• Support system

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Instructions

Medical Concerns

• 1

  Treat infections promptly and properly. Sickle cell anemia often damages the spleen, which is an organ in the body that helps to fight off infections. Thus, children with sickle cell anemia are at an increased risk of developing serious infections. Symptoms of a serious infection may include fever, pain, lethargy, cough, rapid breathing and vomiting.

• 2

  Be aware of stroke symptoms. According to Baby Center, about 10 percent of all children with sickle cell anemia will experience strokes. Symptoms of a stroke include dizziness, headache, vision loss and weakness on one or both sides of the body.

• 3

  Consult a doctor regularly about any health concerns. Infants with sickle cell anemia may have eye problems or suffer from jaundice. A doctor should be consulted about any concerns to ensure prompt and proper treatment.

Emotional Concerns

• 4

  Get and give support. Connecting with other parents of children with sickle cell anemia can help deal with the special challenges that go along with caring for a child with sickle cell anemia.

• 5

  Ask for help. If you are feeling overwhelmed, ask for help from other family members or medical professionals. Counseling may help if you are especially overwhelmed.

• 6

  Stay educated about the disease. Ask your child's doctor about new research concerning sickle cell anemia. Read current books and articles that discuss the disease.