SICKLE CELL CONDITION

S ickle cell anaemia is one of a group of inherited disorders known as sickle cell disease. It affects the shape of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of the body. Some red blood cells are shaped like sickles or crescent moons. These sickle cells also become rigid and sticky, which can slow or block blood flow. Sickle cells usually die in 10 to 20 days, leaving a shortage of red blood cells causing anaemia. Without enough red blood cells, the body can't get enough oxygen. This causes fatigue.

Periodic episodes of extreme pain, called pain crises, are a major symptom of sickle cell anaemia. Pain develops when sickle-shaped red blood cells block blood flow through tiny blood vessels to the chest, abdomen and joints.

The pain varies in intensity and can last for a few hours to a few days. Some people have only a few pain crises a year. Others have a dozen or more a year. A severe pain crisis requires a hospital stay. Some people with sickle cell anaemia also have chronic pain from bone and joint damage, ulcers, and other causes. Sickle-shaped red blood cells block blood circulation in the hands and feet, which can cause them to swell. Frequent infections. Sickle cells can damage the spleen, raising the risk of developing infections. Babies and children with sickle cell anaemia commonly receive vaccinations and antibiotics to prevent potentially life-threatening infections, such as pneumonia.A shortage of healthy red blood cells can slow growth in babies and children and delay puberty in teenagers. Tiny blood vessels that supply blood to the eyes can become plugged with sickle cells. This can damage the portion of the retina, and lead to vision problems.