World Sickle Cell Day

THEME: Shine the Light - Importance of Self Care.

Sickle Cell is an inherited blood disorder whose marker is the flawed hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues of the body. Sickle cell interferes with the delivery of oxygen to the tissues.

Red blood cells are usually round and flexible enabling move easily through blood vessels. In sickle cell anemia, red blood cells are shaped like sickles or crescent moons. These sickles become rigid and sticky, slowing of blocking blood flow. Normal red blood cells can live up to 120 days but sickle cells only live for about 10-20 days.

Diagnosis

1. A complete medical history and physical exam alongside blood tests

2. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a blood test that can determine if a person is a carrier of sickle cell, or has any of the diseases associated with the sickle cell gene.

Symptoms of Sickle Cell

1. Anemia

2. Pain/ sickle crisis

3. Acute chest syndrome

4. Pooling

5. Jaundice

6. Dehydration

7. Complications

8. Increased infections

9. Leg ulcers

10. Bone damage

11. Gallstones

12. Kidney damage

13. Eye problems

14. Multiple organs failure

Treatment of Sickle Cell

1. Pain relief medications

2. Blood transfusion

3. Vaccinations and antibiotics

4. Bone marrow transplant

Nutritional Considerations fpr Sickle Cell Patient

1. Nutritious and healthy foods consist of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein.

2. Adequate fluid consumption to maintain hydration

3. Food sources of omega-3 fatty acids should be included as they increase the fluidity of red blood cells.

4. Eat calcium-rich foods such as milk, yogurt, leafy green vegetables, etc

5. Eat high caloric, nutrient-dense foods e.f dried fruits, nuts, etc.

6. Limit sugar-sweetened/ fizzy drinks.

Sickle Cell Self Care

1. Get enough sleep

2. Frequent oral hydration

3. Supportive medications

4. Avoid overactivity

5. Good personal hygiene

6. Adherence to nutrition recommendations.