How Do You Spot Sickle Cell Disease Symptoms?
Sickle cell anemia occurs when the red cells within the blood become shaped like a sickle. Normal round, red blood cells easily move through blood vessels carrying oxygen throughout the body. Sickle-shaped cells don’t easily move through blood because they have a tendency to clump and stick. These clumps block the flow of blood to the limbs and organs, causing pain, organ damage and serious infections. Examine the tone of your skin for paleness, a common sign of anemia. Even if you have a dark complexion, your lips and skin can be pale and may look washed out. Watch for signs of jaundice, such as a yellowing of the skin and of the whites of the eyes. This condition warrants an immediate call to your doctor. Take note of when you feel tired. Fatigue often provides an early sign of anemia and should be discussed with your physician. Be alert of pain in your joints caused by blocked blood vessels in bones, organs and other tissues. These may be signs of “sickle cell crisis” and require im
