On World Sickle Cell Anemia Day, Dr. Sucharitha helps us understand the basics of the little-understood disease called sickle-cell anaemia.
1. What is sickle cell anemia?
Sickle cell anaemia is an inherited disorder of haemoglobin in blood, in which our normal adult haemoglobin (HbA) is replaced with sickle haemoglobin (HbS). That’s why it’s also called haemoglobinopathy.
2. What are the symptoms of sickle cell anemia?
- Pallour
- Jaundice
- Splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen)
- Dactylitis (swelling of the fingers or toes)
3. What causes sickle cell anemia?
Sickle cell anemia occurs when normal red blood cells, when exposed to a stress like hypoxia or dehydration, turn into sickle cells.
4. What cures sickle cell anemia?
Sickle cell anemia abates when the cause of stress is removed and consequently, the red blood cells return to their normal state.
5. What is the consequence of living with sickle cell anemia long-term?
This repeated change in the state of the red blood cells leads to sticking of sickled cells together, which in turn leads to a condition called microvascular occlusion.
Important note:
Advice not prescriptive. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment if experiencing symptoms.
