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What is Sickle Cell Disease?
What is Sickle Cell Disease?Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder that some people are born with. Learning more about this geneticdisease can help you or a loved one better manage it.You are born with sickle cell disease only if you inherit the gene from both your parents. A blood test can tell ifa person carries the gene. And most babies are now screened for the blood disorder before or shortly afterbirth.To help you better understand sickle cell disease, let's take a closer look at your blood. Blood contains differenttypes of cells. These include: Red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body; White blood cells thathelp fight infections; And platelets that help with blood clotting.Sickle cell disease affects your red blood cells. It changes a protein inside them called hemoglobin. Thisprotein helps the cells carry oxygen throughout your body.In a healthy person, red blood cells are flexible and round. They move easily through blood vessels. But withsickle cell disease, red blood cells become rigid and sticky. They are also shaped more like the letter C, or asickle tool.As these sickle-shaped cells travel through the body, they can bunch together and get stuck in smaller bloodvessels. They may even burst.This block in blood flow can cause episodes of sudden pain. These are called pain crises. They often occur inthe chest, arms, and legs.Parts of the body may also not get enough oxygen, leading to serious health problems, such as:Blood clots; Damage to organs like the lungs, spleen, and liver; Eye problems; Infections; Stroke; Andpriapism, a painful erection that lasts for more than 4 hours.People with sickle cell disease may also develop anemia. This condition is when your body doesn’t haveenough red blood cells.Sickle cells die faster than the body can create new ones. This creates a shortage of red blood cells.Symptoms of anemia include shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue.Sickle cell disease is a lifelong condition. It can sometimes be cured with a bone marrow transplant. But findingthe right genetic match for the procedure can be difficult.Still, there are many ways to stay healthy if you have sickle cell disease. One way is by reducing the chance ofa pain crisis. You can do this by: Staying hydrated; Not smoking; Limiting alcohol; Reducing stress; Andavoiding very hot or very cold temperatures.Your healthcare provider can also tell you about other treatments that may help. These may include medicinesto ease pain or improve blood flow. You may also benefit from blood transfusions. And gene therapy may bean option.Many people with sickle cell disease live long, healthy lives. Connect with your healthcare provider to learnabout all the things you or your loved one can do to feel better and prevent complications.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.© The Wellness Network
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