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Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a condition that directly affects the way of carrying oxygen to the body’s red blood cells. This may lead to further complications. In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr. Vikas Dua, Principal Director and Head, Pediatric Hematology, Hemato Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Head of Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram shared early warning signs, for which we should look out. Also read Sickle cell anemia: What is this, warning signs and symptoms, causes, treatment
1. Pain episode (crisis):
These are one of the hallmark signals. Pain, which can be sharp or beating, usually hits the chest, back, hand, or legs. It can come suddenly and even for hours or days.
2. Old fatigue and weakness:
Because sick cells die rapidly and the body cannot quickly replace them adequately, most people with SCDs live with some levels of anemia. This results in constant exhaustion or feeling out of breath.
3. Swelling of hands and feet:
Especially in young children, inflammation occurs when sick cells block blood flow to the hands or feet, causing inflammation and discomfort.
4. Continuous infection:
SCD can damage the spleen, an organ that helps fight infection. As a result, people are more unsafe for diseases such as pneumonia or meningitis.
5. Delayed Development and Development:
Children with SCD can grow more slowly or enter puberty later than their peers. This is usually caused by a deficiency of red blood cells and nutrients.
6. Eyes or skin yellow (jaundice):
As red blood cells break up more quickly, the liver is overwhelmed, which creates bilirubin. It causes a yellow tint in the skin and eyes.
7. Vision problems:
Small blood vessels in the eye can be blocked by sick cells, potentially causing vision change or damage over time.
8. Shortness of breath or chest pain:
These acute chest can indicate a serious complexity called syndrome, which requires immediate attention. Also read Early clues, lifetime effects: Understanding sickle cell disease
When to seek medical help?
Dr. Vikas Dua further addressed the need for immediate medical intervention, if the following conditions remain:
Serious or worsening pain: If the pain becomes unbearable, it remains more than normal, or does not improve with the drug, it is time to see a doctor. Pain that affects breathing or daily activities should not be ignored.
High fever (above 101 ° F / 38.3 ° C): Fever can be the first sign of a severe infection. Since people with SCD are more prone to infection, any fever – especially in children – should be treated seriously.
Breathing or chest pain: This can be a sign of acute chest syndrome, a life-drug complication. Symptoms such as rapid breathing, cough or chest tightness require immediate attention.
Sudden weakness or numbness: They can indicate a stroke. Other signs include difficulty speaking, facial dropping, or loss of coordination. These symptoms require immediate emergency care.
Prolonged or painful erection: In men, a construction that lasts for more than two hours can damage tissue. This is a painful but often overlooked complexity that requires early treatment.
Yellow skin or excessive fatigue: It may suggest a sudden decline in severe anemia or red blood cell count. A quick evaluation is required to avoid complications. Also read Reducing anemia: 7 to be aware of low reasons
Signs of dehydration or inability to eat/drink: Dehydration may become ill. If a person with SCD stops eating or drinking alcohol or shows signs of severe dehydration, medical help is required.
Note the readers: This article is only for informative purposes and is not an option for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor with any question about a medical condition.
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