It is a condition of the human blood in which red blood cells are deformed and take a half moon shape, which hinders blood circulation and leads to microinfarcts, hemolysis and anemia.
It is a disease of genetic origin.
Symptoms usually do not occur until after the age of 4 months. Almost all people with sickle cell anemia have painful episodes, called crises, which can last from hours to days. These crises can cause pain in the lower back, legs, joints and chest. When the condition becomes more severe, symptoms may include fatigue, abdominal pain, paleness, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), painful and prolonged erection (priapism), poor vision or blindness, problems with thinking or confusion caused by minor strokes and ulcers in the legs.
The diagnosis is reached through clinical questioning, physical examination and whole blood tests.
The goal of treatment is to manage and control symptoms and reduce the amount of seizures. Treatment for sickle cell crisis includes blood transfusions (they can be given regularly to prevent strokes), painkillers and lots of fluids. Invasive treatments will be required if complications arise.
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