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Sickle cell anemia​

Sickle cell disease, also known as sickle cell anemia, is an inherited genetic disorder characterized by an abnormality in the structure of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood.

Causes :
Sickle cell disease is caused by a genetic mutation that affects hemoglobin production. Normally, hemoglobin is type A, but in people with sickle cell anemia, it is type S. This difference in hemoglobin causes the red blood cells to become deformed into a crescent shape, hence the name "sickle cell anemia".

Symptoms and symptoms :
- Pain attacks: Pain attacks are one of the most common symptoms of sickle cell disease. They occur when deformed red blood cells block small blood vessels, reducing oxygen supply to tissues and causing intense pain, usually in the joints, chest or abdomen.
- Anemia: Crescent-shaped red blood cells have a shorter lifespan than normal red blood cells, resulting in a reduced number of red blood cells and, consequently, anemia.
- Organ complications: Sickle cell disease can lead to complications in several organs, including the lungs, brain, kidneys and spleen. These complications can include lung infections, stroke, kidney failure and enlarged spleen.
- Stunted growth: in children with sickle cell disease, the condition can lead to stunted growth and slower physical development.

Related diseases:
Sickle cell disease can be associated with several other diseases, including:
- Acute chest syndrome: This is a serious complication of sickle cell disease, characterized by intense chest pain, fever, difficulty breathing and an increased risk of lung infections.
- Priapism: This is a prolonged, painful erection in men, often caused by the blockage of blood vessels by deformed red blood cells.
- Skin ulcers: People with sickle cell disease are more likely to develop skin ulcers, particularly on the legs and feet.

NB:Treatment available