There have been major advancements in medical sciences. Even then some diseases or disorders like autoimmune or genetic disorders do not have a permanent solution and the patients continue to suffer from their symptoms for life. Sickle cell diseases are genetic disorders related to an abnormality in red blood cells that carry haemoglobin oxygen in the blood.
In sickle cell disorder, the abnormality in the haemoglobin levels causes the RBCs to become sticky and hard. These RBCs normally are round in shape but become sickle-shaped due to abnormality. Since the shape of these RBCs is abnormal they sometimes get stuck in blood vessels which results in clogging of the blood flow. This causes several health issues like chest pain, infection, and more.
On World Sickle Cell Awareness Day today know about the important symptoms related to this disorder that you should never ignore.
Swollen hands and feet
In sickle cell disorder, the hands and feet can get swollen due to the blocking of blood flow. It also causes pain in the hands and feet and such symptoms should not be taken lightly.
Recurring aches in the body
If you suffer from recurring body ache that seems to keep on interfering with your life quality then it can be because of sickle cell disorder as these cells stop the blood flow to the abdomen and chest joints as well as other body parts. In severe cases especially in adults it can cause chronic pain and also damage or lead to ulcer formations.
Delayed puberty or slow growth
When a body lacks healthy red blood cells the growth of the body is slowed down or stunted. You can see children with Sickle cell disorder facing delayed puberty or slow growth in infants.
Vision issues
If the blood flow to the retina is restricted or disrupted it can also cause vision problems and even damage the retina.
Weak immunity
Most of the patients of sickle cell disorder suffer from weak immunity as there is less number of healthy RBCs in the body. More often it increases the risk of damage to the spleen as well as infection to some major body organs.