IN SICKLE CELL DISEASE, RED BLOOD CELLS CAN BECOME RIGID AND CAN ALTER TO BE SHAPED LIKE A CRESCENT OR SICKLE
can range from mild versions, such as colds, to more serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, such as meningitis.
Painful episodes These are one of the most distressing symptoms of sickle cell disease. Also called sickle cell crises, these episodes can be very severe and can last for up to a week. Some people may have one every few weeks, while others may have fewer than one a year. The average is generally one bad episode a year.
If a patient experiences a sickle cell crisis, then they can usually manage it at home. They can do this by: • taking over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen. If the pain is more severe, the patient’s GP may prescribe stronger painkillers. In severe cases, treatment with stronger painkillers in hospital may be required
• taking daily antibiotics and having regular vaccinations to reduce their chances of getting an infection
• drinking more to remain hydrated • using a warm heated pad or towel to massage the body part that is affected by the condition
The main thing a patient can do to reduce their chances of experiencing a painful episode is to avoid potential triggers. As such, they could: • drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration occurring
• avoid sudden temperature changes, such as swimming in cold water
• wear warm clothing to prevent them from being cold
Anaemia Almost everyone affected by sickle cell disease will have anaemia, where the haemoglobin in the blood is at a low level. Haemoglobin is found in red blood cells and is used to transport oxygen around the body.
However, when its levels drop, it can lead to a sudden drop in the number of red blood cells and may cause symptoms, such as headaches, a rapid heartbeat, dizziness and fainting.
Symptoms can start from a few months of age, although many children have few or no symptoms if treatment is started early on.
It’s for that reason that, if a pregnant woman feels that she is at risk of her child being born with the condition, she should ask for screening for the disease since it is often detected during pregnancy or soon after birth.
Treatments People with sickle cell disease need treatment throughout their lives. In truth, the only ‘cure’ for sickle cell disease is a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. Having said that, such transplants aren’t carried out very often because of the risks involved with the operation.
A medicine called hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea) is often recommended. This medicine can lower the amount of white blood cells and clotting cells, so patients will often have regular blood tests to monitor their health.
Outlook While the mild version of the disease may have no impact on their day-to-day life, it can, however, lead to health problems, which can be more serious. Having said that, there are many steps that patients can take to help themselves.
MOST PEOPLE WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE ARE MORE VULNERABLE TO INFECTIONS ESPECIALLY YOUNGER AFFECTED BY THE CONDITION
scottishpharmacist.com 21
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48
