Ways to Cope With Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a lifelong medical condition in which the red blood cells in the body assume a sickle type shape, which in turn makes the passage of blood through vessels and capillaries strenuous, as well as causing a host of other problems. Sickle cell anemia begins during childhood and is triggered by a genetic defect in the hemoglobin. Complications caused from this disorder are chronic pain in the body, jaundice, stroke, and heart failure.

Diet

• .It is now possible for those who are afflicted with sickle cell to extend their life span well beyond the average of 42-47 years. What is required is a healthy diet lifestyle. Children with the disorder will do best staying close to the requirements of the basic food group's pyramid. They need to stay away from typical junk foods and soda drinks and get into the habit of eating foods high in antioxidants and anti-clotting properties. Foods high in antioxidants are nuts/seeds (peanuts, walnuts, sunflower seeds), fruits (oranges, grapes, strawberries), vegetables (spinach, red beets, kale), cereals (oats, corn) rounded out by dried fruits and spices. Some anti-clotting foods are strawberries and cinnamon. Eating these foods on a regular basis can prevent heart disease and stroke-complications of sickle cell disease. Adults should avoid alcohol and caffeine drinks as these cause dehydration. Instead of these, drink plenty of water. Eat foods rich in folic acid like spinach, kale, lettuce, beans, seeds and nuts, granola bars, pasta and peanut butter. Have as much servings as possible daily. Protein rich foods such as lean meats, milk, chicken, eggs and nuts are helpful for the creation of healthy blood cells.

Stress and Exercise

• Also, good rest is necessary and integrating a regimen of consistent exercise into your daily routine is helpful. While there is not one specific exercise plan prescribed for sickle cell anemia patients, here is a plan that a sickle cell patient, P. Allen Jones from Our Voice does-"Three days a week: I stretch my legs to get ready for exercise, I walk for 30 minutes, then lift I light weights (3 or 5 lbs). To end it all, I gently stretch my arms, legs, neck, and back (somewhat like yoga stretching). After this exercise I feel strong and balanced." This is a template, but whatever exercises you choose make sure to not overexert yourself. Attempt to be as stress free as possible. Become involved in hobbies, maintain a positive attitude and do fun things. Meet people and get involved in support groups. Encourage others with the same condition. Avoid activities that involve extremely hard, physical labor.

Over the Counter Medication and Chronic Pain

• Avoid medications such as decongestants. Popular brands include Sudafed, NyQuil D and Tylenol Cold. These medications work by restricting blood flow through the narrowing of blood vessels. To deal with chronic body pain effectively, try to avoid very cold temperatures. If you have to travel in very cold weather conditions remember to dress as warmly as possible. Keep your body loose and take hot showers. You can also soak in a hot tub, get massages and utilize muscle rubbing creams like icy hot. Also, professional physical therapy can be a consideration.

Tips on Home Treatment

• As a person with sickle cell anemia, is it vital to go to the doctor frequently. Get full physicals to ensure everything is well with your health. Do this as much as possible. Also, addictive painkillers may be prescribed for chronic pain. Be cautious as these are powerful drugs-always work with a doctor regarding these medications.