Jessicare Foundation

Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a disorder that involves the red blood cells (RBC) In the blood. The red blood cells (RBC) are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. For the RBC to pass through small blood vessels, they need to be able to flexible. RBCs have a biconcave shape that allows them to squeeze through small blood vessels and return to their normal size. 

 In SCA, the RBCs lose flexibility resulting in a more rigid cell. As they pass through the smaller vessels, they become stuck resulting in decreased blood flow to the organ involved and subsequent painful crises. 

Various triggers can precipitate a painful crisis, including but not limited to, 

  • Dehydration
  • Infection e.g., pneumonia, 
  • Hypoxia (decreased oxygen)
  • Stress
  • Painful crisis: This is one of the major symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia. It includes but is not limited to, chest pain, joint pain, bone pain, and abdominal pain.
  • Dactylitis: Dactylitis is the medical term for swelling of the hands and feet. This occurs due to blockage of the blood vessels in the hands and feet by the sickled RBCs.
  • Priapism: This is a painful spontaneous erection seen in men. Priapism can last several hours and result in erectile dysfunction if not treated immediately. 
  • Anemia: The sickled RBCs are fragile and are prone to hemolysis (destruction of the RBCs) which results ultimately in anemia. 

Patients with sickle cell crises are often managed symptomatically. They are typically given

    • IV fluids
    • Pain medications
    • Oxygen 
    • Blood transfusions to manage anemia
    • There are other treatments available for Sickle Cell Anemia, but you should discuss them with a medical doctor for guidance. 
  • Auto splenectomy: Continuous obstruction of blood vessels in the spleen results in infarction (death) of the spleen. This usually occurs at a very young age. 
  • Infection: One of the functions of the spleen is to help fight certain bacterial organisms. Loss of the spleen results in an increased risk of being infected. 
  • Stroke: The sickled RBCs can obstruct the blood vessels in the brain which may result in permanent disability. 
  • Iron overload: This can occur due to the frequent blood transfusions which patients with sickle cell anemia sometimes require. Too much iron can damage the organs in the body. 
  • Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
  • Avoid places with decreased oxygen tension e.g., mountains, frequent flying)
  • Get appropriate vaccines e.g., yearly flu shot, pneumococcal vaccine, etc. 
  • Limit stress and increase rest. 
  • Daily penicillin until the age of 5: this is given to prevent infections.
  • Support: it is essential to support your warrior friends/ family emotionally. Try to be there for them especially when they go through a crisis. Management of SCA is financially consuming, support them financially. 
  • Prayer: Pray for strength for them even as they go through this journey. 
  • Being a warrior is tough physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially. You don’t always have to be strong. It is ok to allow your friends/ family to help you without feeling guilty. It is ok to ask for their help.  September is Sickle cell awareness month, and we stand with all WARRIORS!

Comment (1)

Leave A Comment

Your Comment
All comments are held for moderation.

Lilian

September 11, 2022

Thanks for this enlightening post.
God bless and protect every warrior out there!

Reply

More Posts