How to live better with sickle cell anemia?
Sickle cell anemia (known as sickle cell anemia, although not in the medical term) is much more than a medical condition: it is one of the most significant public health challenges worldwide. It is the most common structural hemoglobinopathy .
"Every year, between 300,000 and 400,000 children are born with severe forms of this genetic health condition , which particularly affects populations in Africa, the Mediterranean, Asia, the Caribbean, and Central America," says Dr. Evelin Mena Toribio , an adult hematologist.
The internist also explains that in the United States, it is considered one of the most common hereditary problems. Worldwide, around 14% of the population carries the gene responsible, reflecting the magnitude of the problem and the need for specialized healthcare .
"The disease has an autosomal recessive pattern , which means that both parents must be carriers of the gene for a child to inherit it," he explains.
It is also characterized by the presence of hemoglobin S (Hb S) , an abnormal form of hemoglobin that alters the shape of red blood cells.
The doctor explains that these deformed cells become rigid and take on a sickle-like shape, making it difficult for them to pass through the small blood capillaries. This obstruction can cause everything from intense pain attacks to chronic complications in the heart, kidneys, lungs, nervous system, and even the immune system.
In addition to causing chronic hemolytic anemia , the disease can significantly reduce the life expectancy of those who suffer from it. However, it's not all bleak. With proper care , it's possible to lead a full life and participate in most everyday activities.
What is essential
Dr. Evelin Mena Toribio offers key recommendations for patients and caregivers, including: staying well hydrated , avoiding sudden temperature changes, having regular medical checkups , following an appropriate nutritional plan, and being alert to any signs of infection.
Furthermore, he emphasizes that education, emotional support, and access to modern treatments also play an essential role in managing this disease.
Sickle cell anemia is a chronic disease and varies in severity, he explains; while he emphasizes that the life expectancy of most people who suffer from it is reduced; however, they can live fully and enjoy most of the activities that others do.
The following tips will help you or someone you know with sickle cell disease stay as healthy as possible:
- Seek appropriate medical attention.
- Sickle cell disease is a complex condition. Care should be guided by a hematologist (a doctor who specializes in blood disorders).
- Regular medical check-ups.
- Regular medical checkups will help prevent some serious problems; the frequency is individualized, but the following are generally recommended: Babies from birth to one year old should be checked every two months. Children from one to two years old should have a checkup every three months; while adults should visit the doctor every four months, with some cases requiring more or less frequent checkups depending on their development.
- Prevent infections. This is achieved with immunization support recommended by an infectious disease specialist; vaccines must follow a sequence and receive guided support.
- Incorporate healthy habits.
- Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water; hydration is the key to cellular vitality.
- Eat a healthy diet, eat foods rich in antioxidants, avoid highly processed foods, and minimize saturated fats.
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature such as heat, cold, and extreme fatigue.
- Avoid extreme exercises and activities. Although you can participate in some physical activity to stay healthy, cardiovascular health always provides benefits.
- Never incorporate toxic habits : coffee, alcohol, cigarettes, hookah, drugs.
- Use of Antioxidants.
- Antioxidant support, with potential benefits: folic acid, L-Arginine, Glutamine, B vitamins, vitamin D, Co-Enzyme Q10, there are others that can be used successfully after consulting with your specialist.
- Biological Control.
- Women with this disease should be monitored regularly to assess and reduce complications during pregnancy ; infants tend to be born prematurely and are small for their gestational age.
- In the case of homozygous individuals, support from geneticists and reproductive medicine is required to minimize transmissibility.
- Psychological Support. Find a patient support group or community organization that can provide you with information, assistance, and support.
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