Do you carry the trait?
Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA) is one of several healthcare conditions that’s recognized nationally in September. It’s an inherited red blood cell disorder characterized by impaired cells which become altered in size and shape (moon/sickled), have a short life span, and occasionally block blood flow resulting in a crisis episode that can be extremely painful.
Sickle cell disease affects more than 100,000 people in the United States, and approximately 85% of those who are diagnosed are African Americans. Many more are born with the sickle cell trait, referred to as carriers, and generally live a completely normal lifestyle.
More than a decade ago, the United States mandated all newborns be tested for early detection and future care. When someone does experience a sickle cell crises they may have the following symptoms: fatigue, anemia, infections, jaundice, and immense joint pain.
Common treatments may include blood transfusions, pain medications, and a bone-marrow transplant. Other health conditions associated with sickle cell disease include: heart, kidney and liver problems, stroke, stress and anxiety, and pregnancy complications.
It’s important to follow the recommendations of your doctor, eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise, and immediately report any symptoms of a crisis to a health provider as soon as possible.
Figure 1:
How the sickle cell gene is inherited
Contributor: Dr. Karen Jackson
DNP, MSN, NEA-BC
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