Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. In a person living with sickle cell, some red blood cells change shape and become sickled, or banana shaped. The sickling process begins with hemoglobin, the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen. When cells sickle, they can break down and there are fewer red blood cells to carry oxygen to all parts of the body. This can cause serious, long-term complications. Sickle cell is always causing damage in the body, even when pain might not be felt.
STATS
It is estimated that:
Americans affected
by SCD
Black or African-American babies are born with SCD
of people living with SCD usually receive their care in an emergency room
SDC is a genetic, hereditary disease
Requires medical diagnosis
Lab tests or imaging always required
Chronic: lifelong
For informational purposes only. Consult your local medical authority for
advice.
Content ources: National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
SYMPTOMS
Pain areas: in the joints
Pain types: can be sudden
in the
chest,
can include
vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs)
Whole
body: dizziness, fatigue, low oxygen in the body, or malaise
Urinary: inability to
make concentrated or dilute urine or
blood in urine
Also common: abnormal breakdown of red blood cells,
delayed
development, inflamed fingers or toes,
pallor, shortness of breath, or yellow skin and eyes
A vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) is defined as an acute episode of pain that:
TREATMENT
Management of sickle cell is usually aimed at avoiding pain episodes, like VOCs, relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Treatments might include medications and blood transfusions. Vaccinations and penicillin can be used to help prevent life-threatening infections.
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