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Sickle cell disease turns normal, round red blood cells into misshaped cells that look like sickles or crescent moons. The sickle-shaped cells can get stuck in blood vessels, blocking blood flow and causing severe pain. The sickle-shaped cells also can harm organs, muscles, and bones. It is a lifelong condition. Sickle cell disease is passed down in families. You can talk to your doctor about whether to have genetic tests to find out the chance of having a child with the disease. Your doctor also may recommend that your family members get tested for sickle cell disease.
Your doctor may treat you with medicines. Some people get blood transfusions or a bone marrow transplant. Managing pain is an important part of your treatment.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Call your doctor or nurse call line now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse call line if you have any problems.