Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells. In this condition, the red blood cells have an abnormal, sickle-like shape, which obstructs blood flow and causes blockages in blood vessels.
Symptoms:
- Acute pain due to blocked blood vessels (sickle cell crisis).
- Chronic fatigue.
- Pale skin (pallor).
- Frequent infections.
- Delayed growth in children.
Treatment:
- Crisis management with pain relievers.
- Medications like hydroxyurea to improve hemoglobin production.
- Stem cell transplantation in some cases.
