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https://www.crystalrunhealthcare.com/specialties/hematology<br><br>Sickle cell anemia refers to a group of diseases related to the shape and ability of red blood cells to function normally and transport oxygen. <br><br>Sickle cell disease can cause several symptoms like jaundice, chronic pain, and clogged arteries. <br><br>The only cure for sickle cell disease is a blood and bone marrow transplant. There are medications available to manage symptoms.
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What’s Sickle Cell Anemia?
What Is Sickle Cell Anemia? Sickle cell anemia, also known as sickle cell disease, is a group of hereditary red blood cell disorders. Usually, red blood cells are round and move smoothly through your blood vessels, carrying oxygen to your body. In people with sickle cell disease, the red blood cells are C-shaped, hard, and sticky. These cells usually die early, causing a shortage of red blood cells. They can also get stuck to each other and clog the flow of your blood, causing noticeable symptoms.
Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia Sickle cell anemia symptoms include: ● Painful swelling of the extremities, especially the hands and feet Fatigue Irritability A yellowish tinge to the skin or the whites of your eyes Priapism, or the painful blocking of blood vessels in the penis, possibly causing impotence ● ● ● ● Sickle cell anemia may also cause serious health complications like chronic pain, delayed growth, eye problems, infections, and severe anemia.
Causes of Sickle Cell Anemia Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease caused by defects in the gene that helps your body make hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is found in red blood cells and is responsible for transporting oxygen through your body. The defective hemoglobin S gene affects the hemoglobin in your body when oxygen levels become low. This causes the formation of protein strands that make blood cells change to the sickle, C-shape.
Medical Treatment for Sickle Cell Anemia Although there are medicines that can help ease the symptoms and effects of sickle cell disease, there is only one cure: a blood and bone marrow transplant. This treatment is only effective for some patients diagnosed early on. Prescription drugs that may help ease symptoms include: ● ● Voxelotor, which prevents the destruction of some red blood cells Penicillin, which is useful for children and can help reduce their chances of developing sickle cell disease-related infections Hydroxyurea, which can help reduce pain and anemia caused by sickle cell disease ●
When to See a Provider You should see a doctor if you suspect you may have sickle cell disease. Even if the symptoms are mild, early diagnosis could help you explore more options for treatment and symptom management before the disease progresses too far. If you experience severe symptoms or suspect you may be experiencing a complication from the disorder, get in touch with a doctor immediately.
About Crystal Run Healthcare Crystal Run Healthcare is a medical service provider in the New York area that provides a range of treatments and care options for a variety of illnesses and conditions. Our hematology department specializes in treating disorders of the red and white blood cells, and can help you find a diagnosis and treatment plan for your sickle cell disease. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 845-703-6999 or visit https://www.crystalrunhealthcare.com/specialties/hematology.
Sources https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sickle-cell-anemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355876 https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/sickle-cell-disease
Summary Sickle cell anemia refers to a group of diseases related to the shape and ability of red blood cells to function normally and transport oxygen. Sickle cell disease can cause several symptoms like jaundice, chronic pain, and clogged arteries. The only cure for sickle cell disease is a blood and bone marrow transplant. There are medications available to manage symptoms.
