A Comprehensive Guide To Sickle Cell Anemia

Serious Complications of Sickle Cell Anemia

The first complication linked to sickle cell anemia is swelling of the feet and hands, often caused by blood flow being blocked out of the appendages. The most commonly experienced complication is pain, which is the main reason most patients with sickle cell anemia need to be hospitalized. Acute chest syndrome, another complication, is a potentially life-threatening condition that presents with difficulty breathing, fever, coughing, and chest pain. Another potentially life-threatening condition is splenic sequestration, which occurs when a large number of sickle cells become trapped in the spleen, causing sudden enlargement of the spleen. If blood cells in the eye become blocked by sickle cells, patients may partially or totally lose their vision. Leg ulcers may also occur on the lower portion of the leg. If blood flow to the brain is blocked, sickle cell anemia patients may have a stroke.

Still curious? Find out how sickle cell anemia is diagnosed next.