Sickle cell anemia is an inherited form of anemia that results in an inadequate amount of healthy red blood cells in the body. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues. In patients with sickle cell anemia, red blood cells are rigid, sticky and shaped like crescent moons instead of being round and flexible. These crescent-shaped cells can become stuck in small blood vessels and decrease blood flow and oxygen flow to the body. There is no cure to sickle cell anemia, but with adequate treatment and diet and lifestyle changes, you can relieve the pain and prevent further complications.
Symptoms
Symptoms of sickle cell anemia include anemia, or low hemoglobin levels; periodic episodes of pain, commonly called "crises," that occur when cells stick to the blood vessels; hand and feet syndrome, or swollen hands and feet from blocked vessels; and jaundice, a result of an overworked liver due to rapid red blood cell breakdown. Additionally, patients with sickle cell anemia often have frequent infections, due to damage to the spleen by the sickle cells; vision problems, from damage to the eye blood vessels; and, in children, delayed growth and development.
Treatment
The only cure for sickle cell anemia is a bone marrow transplant. However, this surgery can be dangerous, so most doctors provide treatment to prevent pain crises. It is important to visit your doctor regularly, so he can monitor your blood. Treatment to control your symptoms may include pain medications, blood transfusions and supplemental oxygen.
What to Eat
With sickle cell anemia, it is important for you to gain and maintain adequate weight to prevent further complications. The American Dietetic Association recommends that you choose whole milk and dairy products, and eat plenty of meat, poultry and beans, as these are good sources of protein. Also, it is important that you eat a variety of fruit and vegetables, preferably accompanied by cheese, butter or peanut butter to add extra calories, and eat a variety of whole grain and white breads, rolls and other cereal products, again, with added fat to increase caloric content.
What to Avoid
The American Dietetic Association recommends that you avoid drinks with caffeine like coffee or tea. Also, avoid low-calorie broths, as these have little calories and can fill you up fast, and eating plain vegetables. In general, stay clear of anything that is fat free, "light" or diet, because you need to maximize your calorie intake.
Other Tips
Eat more meals throughout the day. Instead of having two or three large meals, opt for five or six smaller, more frequent meals composed of nutrient-rich foods and a protein source. Also, consider taking a liquid protein or calorie supplement between meals to maximize your calorie intake throughout the day. In addition, take a multivitamin to ensure that you get all the nutrients you need.
