Sickle Cell Anemia

Alternate Names : Sickle Cell Trait

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

Persons with sickle cell anemia have many symptoms. They often have problems in growth and development. Individuals may have pain in the joints and chest pain that is worse when they take a deep breath. Sickle cell anemia causes repeated bouts of severe pain. These are called "painful crises" or "thrombotic crises." These attacks of pain are sudden, severe, and affect many areas of the body. The most common areas are the arms, legs, abdomen, chest, and back. The pain can last hours to several days or even weeks. During these painful crises there may be a high fever. The person may require hospitalization. There is no specific cure for the episodes.

The signs of sickle cell anemia can include: