Does It Have A Cure?
The sickle cell disease has no known cure and can only be controlled or managed. Scientists are still working to find a cure for it.
What Is Sickle Cell Crisis?
When sickle cells are present in the blood of a sickler in large numbers, they pile up and stick together in the blood vessels making blood circulation difficult or impossible. Drastic reduction in the blood circulation causes shortages in oxygen supply especially to the hands, feet and bones, hence the Sickle Cell Crisis.
Remote causes of Sickle Cell Crisis include:
1. Infection by parasites that cause malaria, typhoid fever, and so on.
2. Stress conditions.
3. Malnutrition.
4. Physical injury leading to loss of blood, and so on.
5. Other ill-health conditions.
How Are Sicklers Looked After?
When they are healthy, they should be given food factors like folic acid Vitamin B and C, Protein.
How Can Sicklers Manage Themselves?
Sicklers are not invalids and should not regard themselves as such. They can do most things that non-sicklers can do. Sicklers need to:
1. Maintain good general health.
2. Watch and participate in activities.
3. Avoid physically strenuous activities.
4. Avoid stressful conditions, emotionally or mentally.
5. Avoid infections and malaria.
Can A Woman With Sickle Cell Disease Have Babies?
Yes, but they run a high risk of complications during pregnancy, so proper medical care by a specialist during pregnancy is very important.
Can A Sickler Participate In Sports?
Yes. Each individual must participate based on his limit of tolerance. A sickler should not overstress himself and must avoid strenuous games such as football, squash, etc. This leads to dehydration and can lead to crisis.
Should Sicklers Take Blood Transfusion?
Yes, if they have haemolytic crisis which could be caused by infection, malaria, etc. Transfusion has to be decided by a specialist or physician. All blood must be screened for HIV and hepatitis and the donor must preferably have the AA genotype.
Can An Expecting Mother Know Whether She I Carrying A Sickler?
Yes. This has to be done through prenatal diagnosis, by a specialist.
