Information on Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells to deliver enough oxygen throughout the body. Some red blood cells, rather than being round and flexible, are crescent-shaped, rigid and sticky, and can get clogged in blood vessels.

Causes

• Sickle cell anemia is the result of a genetic mutation of the gene that controls the body's production of hemoglobin. The defective gene must be inherited by both the mother and father.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of sickle cell anemia include chronic fatigue, transient but recurring bouts of pain throughout the body, swollen hands and/or feet, jaundice, stunted growth or delayed puberty, vision abnormalities, and susceptibility to infections.

Diagnosis

• A blood test that confirms the presence of hemoglobin S (sickle cells) in the blood is used to diagnose sickle cell anemia. If the test is positive, another blood test will be performed to determine whether the patient has one or two mutated genes.

Treatment

• There isn't a cure for sickle cell anemia, but symptoms can be well-handled with treatment. Antibiotics are used to fend off the infections patients are prone to, and pain medications (often just over-the-counter) or Hydroxyurea are used to manage pain. In severe cases, blood transfusions or bone marrow transplants may be performed.

Coping

• Sickle cell anemia, and especially its bouts of pain, can be very stressful. Many clinics and hospitals offer counseling services or support groups. Extra steps to manage pain, like heating pads or massages, are also beneficial.