What are the signs and symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia?
The signs and symptoms of sickle cell anemia are different in each person. Some people have mild symptoms. Others have very severe symptoms and are often hospitalized for treatment. Although sickle cell anemia is present at birth, many infants dont show any signs until after 4 months of age. The most common signs and symptoms are linked to anemia and pain. Other signs and symptoms are linked to some of the complications of the condition. Anemia The general signs and symptoms of anemia are fatigue (tiredness), pale skin and nail beds, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and shortness of breath. Pain (Sickle Cell Crisis) Sudden episodes of pain throughout the body are a common symptom of sickle cell anemia and are often referred to as sickle cell crises. A sickle cell crisis occurs when the red blood cells sickle (become C shaped) and stick together in clumps. The clumps block the flow of blood through the small blood vessels (capillaries) in the limbs and organs. Sickle crises ca
