Sickle Cell Anemia

By: Llamas RogerOrtiz Matthew

Arandia Sophia

Sickle Cell Anemia is a genetic blood disorder due to abnormal formation of the Hemoglobin (HBs)

The Hemoglobin in the RBC’s is what transports oxygen through the body

Sickle Cell Anemia is a gene error that started thousands of years ago.

What is Sickle Cell Anemia ?

There is no cause; it is hereditary: Sickle Cell happens when someone

inherits 2 copies of the abnormal gene (sickle gene). One from each parent

If you are wondering what a “sickle” looks like:

What Causes Sickle Cell?

* This is where the sickle cell gets its name/shape from*

Unlike RBC which are smooth and round, Sickle Cells' shape doesn't allow it to squeeze through small blood vessels.

This usually results in blockage in the blood vessels and oxygen loss to many organs.

Sickle Cell is NOT contagious

About Sickle Cell Anemia:

How Do Doctors Diagnose Sickle Cell Anemia? Doctors run a special blood test called “hemoglobin

electrophoresis” and they look for sickle hemoglobin cells in your blood.

Diagnosis & Treatment:

Sickle Cell Treatment?‣ Sickle Cell has no real cure, all they can do is possibly blood and marrow stem cells transplant; but there really is no cure.‣ Doctor’s goal is to relieve and treat symptoms and complications.‣ Newborns are given antibiotics to prevent infection.‣The only treatment people get is when they have a crises

Teens may develop Jaundice an illness resulting from RBC breakdown. This causes yellowing of the skin and eyes.

People may also develop Acute Chest Syndrome which is caused by inflammation/infection of the lung’s blood vessels from sickle cells complications.

Another sign would be feeling constantly tired and weak; having severe pain/aching on areas of the body

Symptoms/Signs

Because of oxygen loss to the body it can cause painful episodes called “pain crises” These can be treated with rest and pain medication

These can last anywhere between a couple minutes/hours to weeks.

If Crises worsens you might need to receive a blood transfusion of healthy blood cells to help carry oxygen to where is needed.

You may also need to be hooked up to an IV and stronger pain medication.

Pain Crises (Symptoms)

There is no way to prevent Sickle Cell Anemia.

It is Heredity and is passed down from your parents.

Ways To Prevent:

What can you do live healthier if you have Sickle Cell Anemia?

• You can eat a healthy and balanced diet.• Exercise daily but get enough rest.• Avoid getting sick or contracting infections.• Take all medications prescribed correctly.