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Sickle Cell Disease
Urgent
Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited blood disorders in which abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped. These cells can break down early, causing anemia, and can block small blood vessels, reducing oxygen delivery and causing episodes of severe pain and other complications.
Body System
Blood & Immune System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Sickle cell disease can cause serious complications. Seek urgent medical attention for severe pain, fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness or confusion, severe headache, vision changes, or symptoms that are rapidly worsening. Sudden neurological symptoms or severe breathing difficulty require emergency care.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited blood disorders in which abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped. These cells can break down early, causing anemia, and can block small blood vessels, reducing oxygen delivery and causing episodes of severe pain and other complications.
Symptoms 3
Blisters
Fatigue
Joint Pain
Causes 1
Sickle cell disease is caused by inherited changes in the HBB gene, which provides instructions for making part of hemoglobin. Abnormal hemoglobin, particularly hemoglobin S, can cause red blood cells to become sickle-shaped. The disease develops when a person inherits disease-causing hemoglobin variants from both parents.
Genetics
Risk Factors
Because sickle cell disease is inherited, having parents who carry disease-causing hemoglobin variants increases risk. The condition is more common in people whose ancestry includes regions where malaria has historically been common. A family history of sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait also increases the likelihood of carrying an affected gene.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is made with blood tests that identify abnormal hemoglobin. Newborn screening can detect sickle cell disease early. Hemoglobin analysis and, when needed, genetic testing can distinguish sickle cell disease from sickle cell trait and other hemoglobin disorders. Additional blood tests may be used to assess anemia and complications.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Sickle cell disease itself cannot be prevented when the affected genetic variants have already been inherited
Carrier screening and genetic counseling can help people understand their reproductive risk
Newborn screening allows early diagnosis and treatment
For people with the disease, regular medical care, recommended vaccinations, infection prevention, adequate hydration, and avoidance of known triggers can help reduce complications
Prevention Guidance
Sickle cell disease itself cannot be prevented when the affected genetic variants have already been inherited. Carrier screening and genetic counseling can help people understand their reproductive risk. Newborn screening allows early diagnosis and treatment. For people with the disease, regular medical care, recommended vaccinations, infection prevention, adequate hydration, and avoidance of known triggers can help reduce complications.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Water
Helps prevent dehydration and complications
Folate-rich foods
Support red blood cell production
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Provide essential vitamins
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen dehydration
Highly processed foods
Offer limited nutrition
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is an inherited blood disorder affecting red blood cells.
Pain crises, fatigue, anemia, and infections are common.
Yes, it is passed from parents to children through genes.
Blood tests and hemoglobin electrophoresis are used.
Some patients may benefit from stem cell transplantation.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.