Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder in which red blood cells develop an abnormal crescent shape that prevents them from carrying adequate amounts of oxygen from the lungs to the body. Normal red blood cells are disc-shaped, which enables them to store hemoglobin, an oxygen-carrying protein. Sickle cell anemia is an incurable condition which is managed through proper diet and medication.
Sickle Cell Anemia and Food
Patients with sickle cell anemia are advised to increase consumption of high calorie foods, proteins and fruits, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. Extra calories assist the body in fighting off infections and in dealing with fatigue and shortness of breath caused by reduced oxygenation of body organs. Folic acid, B-12 and protein foods help the body to replace damaged red blood cells. Fruits contain antioxidants which help the body fight off infections. Patients with sickle cell anemia should also increase fluid intake so as to dilute the blood and prevent red blood cells from sickling.
Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia
Patients with sickle cell anemia develop symptoms of anemia because sickled red blood cells do not provide adequate oxygenation of tissues and body organs. Common symptoms of sickle cell anemia include fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, coldness in the hands and feet, pale skin, yellowish skin color, abdominal pain, delayed growth, rapid heart rate, fever, painful prolonged erection, and excessive and bone pain, according to PubMedHealth.
Treatment and Prevention of Sickling
Treatment of sickle cell anemia is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications of the disease. Antibiotics are used to treat frequent infections. Pain medications such as aspirin and acetaminophen are used to relieve pain. Hydroxyurea is used treat severe symptoms caused by sickle cell crisis. Folic acid supplements are administered to promote production of healthy red blood cells. Sickling of red blood cells can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, getting enough oxygen and treating infections.
Complications of Sickle Cell Anemia
Complications of sickle cell anemia include ulcers on the lower legs, blindness, strokes, erectile dsyfunction, gallstones, frequent infections such as urinary tract infections and pneumonia. Patients with sickle cell anemia receive frequent blood transfusions so as to prevent stroke. Sickled red blood cells can block flow of blood to organs such as the brain and the heart and lungs. Frequent blood transfusions aid in the removal of sickled red blood cells .
