Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that affects the hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.1  Sickle cell trait affects 1 million to 3 million Americans.2 People with SCD have abnormal hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can form red blood cells into a sickle, or crescent, shape. These irregularly shaped cells can get stuck in blood vessels, leading to different complications.

What causes SCD?

SCD is caused by a mutation in the gene that tells your body to make hemoglobin. The disease develops when one abnormal gene is inherited from both parents. If you inherit only one abnormal gene, you’ll have sickle cell trait, which is usually less serious.

Symptoms of SCD

The symptoms of SCD can vary from person to person and can change over time. Common symptoms include:3

  • Anemia
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Episodes of pain, known as pain crises
  • Jaundice
  • Swelling in the hands and feet

Complications of SCD can be severe and can also cause stroke and organ damage. Managing these complications means ensuring that you maintain ongoing medical care.

Tips for managing SCD

While there is currently no cure for SCD, several treatments can help manage symptoms and complications:

  • Medications. Some medications can help manage pain, prevent complications, and reduce the frequency of pain crises.
  • Hydration. Staying hydrated can help prevent sickle cell crises.
  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help manage SCD.
  • Regular medical visits. Regular checkups with a healthcare provider specializing in SCD are essential to monitor the disease and prevent complications.

SCD among ethnic groups

SCD disproportionately affects people of African, Hispanic, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern descent.4 It’s important for minority groups to understand SCD for several reasons. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms of SCD can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, which can improve health outcomes.

Within ethnic groups, knowledge of SCD is very important for family planning. If you and your partner have a family history of SCD, you can seek genetic counseling to understand the risk of passing the disease on to your children.

Sickle cell disease requires ongoing management and care. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and complications of SCD, you can take proactive steps to manage the disease and improve your quality of life. 

SIDEBAR: BESTME

Mindfulness for expecting moms: Techniques for reducing stress 

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that can often come with feelings of stress and anxiety. Mindfulness, being fully present and engaged in the moment, can be a powerful tool for expecting moms to manage stress and promote overall well-being. Here are some effective mindfulness techniques to help reduce stress during pregnancy.

  • Meditation. Set aside a few minutes each day for meditation. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath or a calming mantra. Meditation can help clear the mind and promotes a sense of peace.
  • Mindful walking. Take a walk and pay attention to how your body feels during each step. Listen to the sounds around you and enjoy the feeling of the air on your skin. Mindful walking can be a great way to relax and enjoy the present moment.
  • Journaling. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a relaxing way to process emotions and reduce stress. Take a few minutes each day to journal about your thoughts and experiences.

AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollees who are expecting to have access to resources and programs to support your journey. The Bright Start® maternity care program offers personalized care management, including access to an OB/GYN or midwife, breastfeeding support and childbirth classes, and educational resources tailored to your pregnancy needs. Visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com to download the Bright Start booklet. 

AmeriHealth Caritas DC also provides emotional support services via text to help you navigate the emotional aspects of pregnancy. Enrollees can download the Headspace Care or MindRight apps from the Google Play or Apple App Store to text with an emotional support coach.

By adding mindfulness practices and utilizing available resources, you can create a more serene and balanced pregnancy experience. Remember, taking care of your mental well-being is as important as your physical health during this special time. 

Sources

  1. “About Sickle Cell Disease,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
    https://www.cdc.gov/sickle-cell/about/index.html 
  2. “Sickle Cell Trait,” American Society of Hematology, https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/sickle-cell-trait#:~:text=Sickle%20cell%20trait%20is%20an,10%20percent%20of%20African%20Americans.
  3. “What Are the Symptoms of Sickle Cell Disease?,” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12100-sickle-cell-disease
  4. “Sickle Cell Disease,” American Society of Hematology, https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/sickle-cell-disease#:~:text=Sickle%20cell%20disease%20is%20more,Asian%2C%20Indian%2C%20and%20Mediterranean%20descent

All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model

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