Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder in which the body makes sickle-shaped red blood cells instead of disc-shaped red blood cells. Normal red blood cells are shaped like discs, which enables them to store hemoglobin and to also move easily through blood vessels. One of the main treatments of sickle cell anemia is regular blood transfusions. People with sickle anemia are at risk for iron overload due to blood regular blood transfusions.
Sickle Cell Anemia and Iron Overload
During sickle cell crisis, red blood cells become sickled and block major blood vessels, disrupting blood flow to body tissues and organs. Disruption of blood flow can lead to stroke and heart attack. Patients with sickle cell anemia receive regular blood transfusions so as to prevent stroke and heart attack, according to the Mayo Clinic. Blood transfusions increase the number of normal red blood cells. Regular blood transfusions can lead to excess iron buildup in the body.
Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia
People with sickle cell anemia experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, headache, pale skin, coldness in hands and feet, yellowing of the skin, ulcers on the lower legs, fever, delayed growth, bone pain, abdominal pain, fatigue, chest pain, excessive thirst, painful and prolonged erections and poor eyesight, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment
Sickle cell anemia is an incurable disease. Treatment is usually aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications, according to the Mayo Clinic. Patients with sickle cell anemia who receive regular blood transfusions are also given deferasirox, a drug that reduces iron levels. They receive antibiotics to treat and prevent infections. Pain medications such as nonsteroidal non-inflammatory drugs are also administered to relieve pain during sickle crisis. Heat applications are also used to relieve pain. Hydroxyurea, a cancer drug, is also used to relieve painful crises.
Prevention of Complications
People with untreated sickle cell anemia are at risk for anemia, stroke and infections. Patients should take folic acid supplements because folic acid is needed by the bone marrow for producing healthy red blood cells. Drink plenty of water to help keep blood diluted, which reduces the sickling of red blood cells. Sickling of red blood cells can lead to stroke and heart attack when due to blockage of blood circulation by sickled red blood cells.
