What Causes the Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia?
October 3, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder of the blood that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. It is caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin gene, resulting in the production of abnormal hemoglobin known as hemoglobin S (HbS). The presence of HbS leads to the characteristic sickle shape of red blood cells when they are deprived of oxygen. The main causes of the symptoms of sickle cell anemia are related to the altered red blood cell structure and function:
- Abnormal Hemoglobin:
- Hemoglobin S (HbS) is less flexible and becomes rigid and “sickled” when oxygen levels are low, causing the red blood cells to clump together and obstruct blood flow.
- Reduced Oxygen Levels:
- The sickle-shaped red blood cells have difficulty carrying oxygen throughout the body, resulting in tissue and organ damage due to oxygen deprivation (ischemia).
- Vaso-occlusion:
- Sickle cells can block small blood vessels, leading to vaso-occlusion, tissue infarction (tissue death due to lack of blood supply), and severe pain crises.
- Inflammation and Injury:
- The altered red blood cells and vaso-occlusion trigger inflammation and injury to blood vessel walls, exacerbating tissue damage and further impeding blood flow.
- Anemia:
- Sickle cells have a shorter lifespan than normal red blood cells, leading to a chronic shortage of red blood cells (anemia), resulting in fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
- Organ Damage:
- Over time, repeated vaso-occlusion episodes can cause damage to various organs, including the spleen, liver, lungs, heart, kidneys, and bones, affecting their normal function.
- Pain Crises:
- Vaso-occlusion and tissue ischemia can cause severe and recurrent episodes of pain, known as sickle cell crises, often requiring hospitalization and pain management.
- Susceptibility to Infections:
- Sickle cell anemia can impair the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections, particularly those caused by encapsulated bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- Delayed Growth and Development:
- Children with sickle cell anemia may experience delayed growth, delayed puberty, and potential learning difficulties due to inadequate oxygen supply to the brain.
Sickle cell anemia is a chronic and lifelong condition without a cure. Management involves pain management during crises, prevention and treatment of complications, blood transfusions, hydroxyurea (a medication that increases fetal hemoglobin production), and, in some cases, stem cell transplantation. Early diagnosis and a comprehensive care plan can improve the quality of life and outcomes for individuals with sickle cell anemia.