Sickle Cell Disease Forum

 Facts, articles, and general information about Sickle Cell Disease : 

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Sickle Cell Anemia Disease FAQ

What is Sickle Cell Anemia Disease ? ( Also called: Hemoglobin SS disease )

Sickle cell anemia is a disease in which your body produces abnormally shaped red blood cells. The cells are shaped like a crescent or sickle. They don't last as long as normal, round red blood cells, which leads to anemia. The sickle cells also get stuck in blood vessels, blocking blood flow. This can cause pain and organ damage.

A genetic problem causes sickle cell anemia. People with the disease are born with two sickle cell genes, one from each parent. If you only have one sickle cell gene, it's called sickle cell trait. About 1 in 12 African Americans has sickle cell trait. A blood test can show if you have the trait or anemia. Most states test newborn babies as part of their newborn screening programs.

Is there a cure for sickle cell disease ?

Yes ! . Allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative treatment for sickle cell disease . However, its use has been limited by the risk of transplantation related mortality (TRM).

What are other promising treatment developments ?

The administration of the herbal formula called NICOSAN (TM) has shown very encouraging results on some sickle cell patients . It greatly reduces the frequency of acute pain, and need for blood transfuions . It is also pertinent to note that Nicosan (TM) is 0 % toxic , with no side effects .

What about Hydroxyurea therapy ?

Studies have shown that Hydroxyurea therapy has significant efficacy in reducing the frequency of painful crises in some adults and children . However , the main problem concerning the use of Hydroxyurea is the issue of managing its adverse & severe side effects on the human body . It is advised that Hydroxyurea be used only in the absence of safer alternatives .

Can people with sickle cell disease live productive lives ?

Yes ; with good management , care and support , people with sickle cell disease can live not only productive but also fulfilling lives .

If i am unable to proceed for  Allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT), then what can i do  in order to cope better with sickle cell disease ?

1.Do not skip medication

2.Eat a balanced diet

3.Take folic acid supplements

4.Rest a lot, especially during acute sickle cell crises

5.Do not smoke

6.Avoid alcohol

7.Do not use harmful drugs (coccaine , heroine, e.t.c)

8.Join a support group

9.Avoid physical and emotional stress

10.Do not over exercise

11.Avoid sources of bacterial, viral, and fungal infection

12.Thoroughly cook food before eating

13.Drink 8 glasses of water everyday

14.Get plenty of fresh air

15.Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables

16.Have a positive mental attitude

17.Avoid extreme weather conditions 

18.Pray daily and have faith -there is still a God up there who still answers prayers and performs miracles.

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