What is sickle cell disease?
What is sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell disease is a condition where red blood cells are shaped like a crescent or sickle instead of being round.
What is the job of red blood cells?
Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
What is a common symptom of sickle cell disease?
Pain is a common symptom, often called a "sickle cell crisis".
Can sickle cell disease be cured?
For most people, treatments help manage the symptoms. Certain kinds of transplants and gene therapy can cure sickle cell for some people.
What causes sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell disease is caused by a change in the gene that makes hemoglobin, the part of the blood that carries oxygen.
What part of your body makes new red blood cells?
Your bone marrow makes new red blood cells.
How does sickle cell affect energy levels?
People with sickle cell disease often feel tired because they have less hemoglobin than other people. That means they have less oxygen going to their organs. This is called anemia.
What medicine do some people with sickle cell disease take?
Some people take pain medicine to help manage their pain.
What is hemoglobin?
Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen through the body.
What do white blood cells do?
White blood cells help fight off infection and keep you healthy.
What happens when blood flow is blocked by sickle-shaped cells?
When blood flow is blocked, it can cause pain, swelling, or even damage to organs.
What can doctors do to treat a sickle cell crisis?
During a sickle cell crisis, doctors may give fluids by mouth or vein and pain medicine to help ease the the pain and improve blood flow.
Why are sickle-shaped red blood cells a problem?
Sickle-shaped red blood cells can get stuck in blood vessels, which can block blood flow and cause pain or other problems.
What are platelets and what do they do?
Platelets help your blood clot when you get a cut or injury.
Can sickle cell disease affect other parts of the body?
Yes, sickle cell disease can affect organs like the brain, spleen, kidneys, and lungs and it can lead to serious health problems.
What is a blood transfusion and how does it help people with sickle cell disease?
A blood transfusion is when a person gets new healthy red blood cells from a donor. This can dilute the sickle cells and improve blood flow.