What can be done to help prevent sickle cell complications?
Complications of Sickle Cell can occur episodically and spontaneously and are different for each individual. However complications can be provoked by certain known triggers. Triggers such as smoking, exercise, travel to high altitudes, or drops in oxygen or changes in air pressure that can occur during air travel should be avoided. The following are general guidelines to keep the sickle cell patient healthy: • Take folic acid (folate) daily to help generate new red blood cells • Daily penicillin until age 6 to prevent serious infection • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water (8-10 glasses for adults) • Avoid temperatures that are too hot or too cold.
