In September, All Children's Hospital observes Sickle Cell Awareness Month. In the common variations of this inherited blood disorder, the red blood cells change shape - from a round shape to a "c" or "sickle" shape, causing red blood cells to clump together, and interferes with the normal circulation of healthy, oxygenated blood through the patient's body.
Did you know...
Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited condition that causes red blood cells to break easily.
Patients have a lower than normal number of red blood cells (anemia).
Chronic anemia can cause fatigue, decreased stamina and poor exercise tolerance.
Red blood cells can become rigid (sickle) and block blood flow past the point of sickling.
Sickling results in pain crises and can cause injury to the bones, lungs, spleen and other organs.
Patients also have a higher risk of bacterial infection and must seek urgent medical care for fever.
Patients benefit from education about their illness and regular medical check ups.
All Children's Hospital provides comprehensive preventative care to Sickle Cell patients.
