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What Are the Signs of Sickle Cell?

Sickle cell is a type of anemia. It is an inherited disease. Sickle cell damages the body's red blood cells, causing them to become rigid and shaped like crescent moons. This can cause blockages of blood flow and oxygen. According to the National Institutes of Health, most infants with the disease will begin to show signs after they are four months old. While sickle cell anemia has no cure, the symptoms and complications can be treated.

  1. Sickle Cell Crises

    • One of the more distinguishable symptoms of sickle cell is the sickle cell crisis. Each patient will differ as to how often they experience a crisis. Crises are sudden, major pain episodes that occur periodically. This happens when the blood cells block the circulation through blood vessels that travel to the patient's abdomen, joints, and chest. Patients may have acute or chronic pain. According to the National Institutes of Health, an episode of acute pain may be mild or severe, and may last for a few hours or a few days. Chronic pain can be draining and interfere with daily activities. It may last for a few weeks or months. If the pain from a sickle cell crisis is very severe, the patient may require hospitalization.

    Other Symptoms

    • Sickle cell anemia patients often experience fatigue. According to Medline Plus, they may also notice fever, paleness, rapid heart rate, bone pain, abdominal pain, breathlessness, chest pain, excessive thirst, poor eyesight, and frequent urination. Not all patients will experience every symptom. The severity of the symptoms will also vary based on the individual.

    Complications

    • Sickle cell anemia may lead to other medical complications. Patients are more susceptible to infections, such as pneumonia. This is because the disease can weaken the spleen, which aids in warding off infections. Patients should take care to avoid contact with sick people. Parents may also notice that children with sickle cell have delayed growth and puberty. This happens because red blood cells help facilitate growth by carrying nutrients and oxygen. Sickle cell damages these blood cells. Another complication of sickle cell is hand-foot syndrome. According to the Mayo Clinic, parents may notice this symptom first in their infants. This syndrome causes swollen hands and feet, due to circulation problems.

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