If you have sickle cell disease, working out can help lower your risk for heart disease, cancer and diabetes, and keep your blood pressure within normal limits. Working out can also help your red blood cells carry oxygen more efficiently to your vital organs by dilating your blood vessels for improved blood flow. When exercising, stay hydrated and don't overexert yourself.
Pathophysiology
Sickle cell disease affects the red blood cells. Healthy red blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin. They are shaped like a disc with a concave middle. These red blood cells are flexible and able to freely flow through blood vessels, supplying your vital organs with an ample supply of oxygen. With sickle cell disease, a protein called hemoglobin-S is bound to the red blood cells, giving them a sickle shape. These red blood cells are fragile and sticky, causing them to clump in your blood vessels and block normal flow. Oxygenation is impaired to your vital organs, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Swimming
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that provides an effective workout. Swimming indoors on hot days may be a better choice to prevent dehydration. Swimming laps across a pool a few days a week for 30 minutes will work your major muscles. Rest every couple of laps so you don't get exhausted. Have a bottle of water nearby for hydration. Warm up with low-impact cardio exercises before swimming and perform stretches afterward for a cool-down.
Walking and Running
Walking is a low-impact cardio exercise that will get your heart rate up. Wear comfortable shock-absorbent footwear. Walk up to 30 minutes a day, several days a week. If you're not used to running, start slowly. On bad-weather days, you can walk or run in a gym or on a treadmill at home. Before running, perform low-impact aerobic exercises and stretch afterward to cool down.
Biking
Biking can be done indoors on a stationary bike or outdoors. Try not to bike on hot, humid days outdoors, but if you do, stay well hyrdrated. Biking will get your heart rate up and strengthen your leg muscles. When biking outdoors, wear a helmet for safety. Consult your doctor before starting an exercise program.
