Causes Of Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a blood disorder that changes the shape of a red blood cell from a full, rich cell to a stiff curved shape. Sickle cell anemia can be described by chronic anemia, painful events and diverse complications. Anemia occurs when the body has a low amount of red blood cells. Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia carriers vary individually. Usually people have few to no symptoms, however, the symptoms that can occur range from mild to fatal. Milder symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia include constant fatigue, shortness in breath and paleness of skin and fingernails. More prominent symptoms can include frequent infections, eye conditions, stunned growth and delayed puberty, and to the worst extent, organ failure which may lead to death

Hemoglobin is a protein that is vital for humans because it distributes oxygen throughout the body. The three types of hemoglobin include heme, alpha globin and beta globin. Sickle Cell Anemia occurs when an alteration of the beta globin gene is present. In the DNA of beta globin, a substitution of adenine to thymine occurs which results in using amino acid valine instead of glutamic acid. This causes the deformed shape of the blood molecule. Doctors typically diagnose Sickle Cell Anemia at birth; it is even possible to diagnose this when the child is still in the fetus. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is the blood test performed in order to identify Sickle Cell Anemia. Although Sickle Cell Anemia does not have any prevention or treatment plans, there are methods to relive symptoms. People with Sickle Cell Anemia are more prone to getting infections. Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to children of young age to prevent getting pneumonia (Health & Wellness Resource Center). In addition, any patients of this disease are given flu shots, vitamins and antibiotics if needed to prevent other illnesses. IV fluids and pain medication are also given if necessary