Archive · 5 Jun 2025
Sickle Cell Anaemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Understanding
Imagine your blood cells are like little cars that carry oxygen.
In sickle cell anemia, these cars get bent out of shape and become sticky, making it hard for them to move.
This can make you feel tired and weak because your body isn't getting enough oxygen.
It can also cause pain, especially in your chest, joints, or belly.
Sometimes, your hands and feet might swell, and you could get infections more easily.
Your skin or eyes might also turn yellow.
It is important to see a doctor if you think you might have this.
Sickle cell anemia affects red blood cells, causing them to become rigid and sticky.
Common symptoms include fatigue and weakness due to reduced oxygen transport.
Painful episodes can occur when blood flow is blocked in small vessels.
Swelling in hands and feet may be noticeable, especially in young children.
Individuals with this condition may be more susceptible to frequent infections.
- Who
- People with sickle cell anaemia.
- What
- A condition where red blood cells become rigid and sticky, affecting blood flow.
- When
- Symptoms can vary, but the condition is present from birth.
- Where
- Throughout the body.
- Why
- Due to a lack of healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin, preventing adequate oxygen delivery.
- What is Sickle Cell Anemia?
- An inherited condition affecting red blood cells.
- Estimated People with the disease
- 7.74 million in 2021.
- How does it affect blood flow?
- Red blood cells become rigid and sticky.
- Specific Symptoms
- Can cause painful swelling in hands and feet.
- Impact on the body
- Can damage the spleen, increasing infection risk.