Hello
Do you or someone you know have Sickle Cell Disorder?
Here’s some information all about it!
What is Sickle Cell Disorder?
Sickle Cell Disorder (or Sickle Cell Disease) is something people are born with that changes how their red blood cells work.
Normally, red blood cells are round and soft, like a doughnut without a hole, and they move easily through the body to carry oxygen (which gives you energy!).
But in sickle cell, the red blood cells can turn into a sickle shape, kind of like a banana or crescent moon. These sickle-shaped cells can get stuck sometimes, which can make a person feel tired or have pain.
But don’t worry! There are lots of ways to help people with sickle cell feel better and stay healthy.
What causes Sickle Cell Disorder?
Sickle Cell Disorder happens because of a tiny change in the genes that people get from their parents.
If they only get it from one parent, they have something called sickle cell trait, which means they don’t usually feel sick, but they can pass the gene to their own children one day.
For someone to have sickle cell, they need to get the gene from both their mum and dad.
Wow, we’re learning so much! But before we dive in deeper, let’s take a quick water break and learn a cool fact!
Did you know there are different types of sickle cell?
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HbSS is the most common type and is usually what people mean when they say sickle cell disease.
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HbSC is another type, and people with this might not feel sick as often, but they still need to be careful and they still may experience symptoms similar to HbSS.
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Sickle Cell Trait means you carry the sickle cell gene from one parent but don’t have the disease. However, in rare cases, extreme dehydration, high altitudes, or intense physical activity can cause health issues like pain or breathing problems.
Isn’t it amazing how different our bodies can be?
How does Sickle Cell Affect the Body?
Most of the time, people with sickle cell feel just fine! But sometimes, the sickle-shaped red blood cells can get stuck in small blood vessels. When that happens, it might cause:
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Pain in places like the arms, legs, back or even joints (this is called a sickle cell crisis).
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Feeling tired or out of breath because the body isn’t getting enough oxygen.
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Getting sick more easily because the body’s immune system isn’t as strong.
But with the right care, people with sickle cell can still do all the things they love like playing, going to school, and hanging out with friends.
Oh no! 😯 Look! It seems like the sickle cells are blocking the blood flow! When red blood cells lose oxygen, they change shape and turn hard and sticky this is called sickling. These sickle-shaped cells can get stuck in tiny blood vessels, making it hard for blood to flow properly.
What are the signs of Sickle Cell Disorder?
Here are some common things people with sickle cell might experience:
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Pain in their body sometimes (called a sickle cell crisis).
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Feeling very tired
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Getting out of breath easily or having less energy
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Swollen hands or feet
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Their skin or eyes looking a little yellow (this is called jaundice)
If someone feels these things, they can go to a doctor who knows how to help them feel better!
Why Do People With Sickle Cell Get Tired?
People with sickle cell sometimes feel really tired. That’s because their sickle-shaped red blood cells don’t live as long as normal cells. The body has to work extra hard to make new ones!
It’s like if you had to keep replacing your toys because they wore out too fast you’d get pretty tired of that too!
Let’s pause for another fact and you guessed it, a little
water break!
What is a Sickle Cell Crisis?
Hey there! Have you ever heard of a sickle cell crisis?
A sickle cell crisis happens when those crescent-shaped red blood cells get stuck in tiny blood vessels.
This can cause pain in places like your arms, legs, chest, or back. Sometimes it feels like a cramp, and other times it might feel very painful, a pain that is hard to explain. But guess what? There are ways to feel better, and adults like doctors and family members know how to help you feel better!
What to Do During Sickle Cell Crisis?
If someone has a sickle cell crisis, they can:
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Rest and get cozy with a blanket.
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Drink lots of water to help their blood flow better.
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Use a heating pad on the painful area to feel more comfortable.
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Take medicine (that the doctor gave) to help with the pain.
If the pain doesn’t go away or it feels worse, it’s time to tell an adult or go see a doctor. The doctors know just what to do to help!
What Can Trigger a Sickle Cell Crisis?
Let’s talk about some things that can trigger or cause a sickle cell crisis and how to avoid them! But don’t worry, knowing this helps people with sickle cell stay safe and strong.
Not Drinking Enough Water
If you don’t drink enough water, your blood can get thicker, making it easier for sickle cells to get stuck. That’s why we take so many water breaks it’s super important!
Getting Too Cold or Too Hot
Being in really cold weather or getting too hot can make sickle cells act up. It’s good to dress warmly in winter and stay cool in the summer!
Feeling Really Tired or Stressed
When your body is super tired or stressed, it can trigger a crisis. That’s why it’s important to rest, relax, and not overdo it.
Getting Sick (Like a Cold or the Flu)
Being sick can sometimes start a crisis. That’s why people with sickle cell get extra check-ups and vaccines to stay healthy.
Exercising Too Hard Without Breaks
Exercise is good, but doing too much without resting or drinking water can cause problems. So take it easy, and don’t forget your water bottle!
Can You Catch Sickle Cell?
You can’t catch sickle cell like a cold or the flu. It’s something you’re born with. If both of your parents carry the sickle cell gene, there’s a chance you could have it too.
So don’t worry you can’t get sickle cell from hugging or playing with someone who has it. Let’s take a sip of water and keep going!
Whoa! You’re doing great! But first, time for another water break hydration powers our learning!
How Do People with Sickle Cell Stay Healthy?
There are lots of ways to help people feel good and stay healthy:
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Drinking lots of water helps keep the blood flowing smoothly.
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Taking your medicine when needed to help with pain or to stop them from getting sick.
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Getting plenty of rest and staying warm.
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Visiting the doctor for regular check-ups.
Some people with sickle cell might also get special medicine to stop them from getting sick or have a blood transfusion (where they get healthy blood from someone else).
Can People with Sickle Cell Do Fun Things?
Yes, they can! People with sickle cell can play games, go to school, and do all the fun things their friends do. They just might need to take breaks when they’re tired and make sure they drink plenty of water.
Remember: Everyone is different! Some people might have sickle cell and feel great most of the time, while others might need a little extra help. And that’s okay!
We made it to the last fact! And this one explains why we’ve been taking so many water breaks!
Kids with sickle cell should drink about 2 to 3 litres of water every day that’s 4 to 6 big glasses! Drinking water helps keep their blood moving smoothly and stops those sickle cells from causing trouble.
Now you know why I’ve been reminding you to drink water it’s super important for everyone, but especially for people with sickle cell! Let’s have one last big sip together you’ve earned it!