Helping to Prevent Sickle Cell Disease Complications

Overview

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that can cause various complications. These complications can vary from person to person, depending on factors like age, medical history, and the type of SCD they have.

SCD can lead to various complications, but there are steps individuals can take to prevent or reduce their risk. Here are some preventable complications of SCD and ways to minimize the risk:

• Stroke: Sickle cells can block blood vessels in the brain, causing a stroke. This risk is higher in individuals with SCD, starting from early childhood. Signs of a stroke include numbness or weakness on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking or understanding, vision problems, difficulty walking, dizziness, and severe headache. To reduce the risk of stroke:
  • Avoid combination hormonal birth control, as it increases the risk of stroke in individuals with SCD.
• Kidney problems: SCD can cause damage to the kidneys and affect their function. People with SCD may experience increased urination and may have bed-wetting or urinary incontinence. To prevent kidney problems:
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in hot weather or during exercise.
  • Avoid holding urine for long periods and empty the bladder regularly.
  • Follow a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Acute pain crises: These episodes of severe pain are a common complication of SCD. To prevent acute pain crises:
  • Take all medications recommended by your doctor.
  • Stay well-hydrated by drinking about 10 glasses of water per day.
  • Avoid extreme physical activities and stick to light or moderate exercise.
  • Dress warmly in cold weather and carry an extra layer.
  • Manage stress levels effectively.
• Infections: People with SCD are more susceptible to infections. To reduce the risk of infections:
  • Wash hands frequently to avoid germs.
  • Get all recommended vaccinations, including the flu vaccine.
  • Follow good hygiene practices, such as covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
• Lung injury: Acute chest syndrome is a serious complication that can lead to lung injury and difficulty breathing. To prevent lung injury:
  • Consider hydroxyurea therapy as recommended by your doctor, as it reduces the occurrence of acute pain episodes and acute chest syndrome.

Remember, these preventive measures can help reduce the risk of complications associated with sickle cell disease. It's important to consult with your doctor for personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific condition. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider will also help identify any issues early on for prompt treatment.

Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for side effect information.