Sickle Cell Anemia
What is it?
Genetic blood disorder that causes the body to produce abnormal hemoglobin. The abnormal hemoglobin causes the red blood cells to become shaped like a sickle or crescent, which can block small blood vessels, prevent oxygen from reaching tissues, and cause pain and organ damage. Mostly affects people of African descent, but it also occurs in people of Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean ancestry.
Symptoms
Fatigue & weakness
and shortness of breath
Strokes
Sickled cells clog vessels reducing blood flow/oxygen to brain
Organ Damage
Sickled cells prevent oxygen/nutrients from reaching organs. Give Hydroxyurea (prevents cells from sickling)
Increased risk for infections
Damage to the spleen which helps remove bacteria/viruses from body
Delayed Growth and Development
Slow growth and development.
Treatment
H
O
P
Hydration
Oxygen
Pain Management
Acute chest syndrome
- Sickled red blood cells block blood vessels in the lungs → hypoxia and lung damage
- Symptoms: chest discomfort/pain, cough, shortness of breath, fever, and rapid breathing
- Leads to respiratory failure/death