Antibiotics and vaccinations may prevent infections. General health visits with a physician are recommended to ensure the patients is getting adequate nutrition, maintaining proper activity levels, and receiving proper vaccinations. In incentive spirometry, the patient breathes into a plastic tube that has a ball inside. By trying to breathe hard enough to force the ball up the tube, the patient receives more oxygen. Using this treatment when chest pains begin may decrease the complications of acute chest syndrome.
Prenatal diagnosis is now possible for couples at risk of producing a child with sickle cell anemia.
There is currently no known cure for the disease. Therefore, the purpose of therapy is to manage and control symptoms resulting from crises. During a crisis, bed rest is recommended to reduce energy expenditure and oxygen needs. Maintaining adequate oxygen levels prevents the acidosis , which can cause sickling. Supplementation with Folic acid , an essential element in producing cells, is required because of the rapid red blood cell turnover.