Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder of the red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body by using a protein called hemoglobin. Normal red blood cells contain only normal hemoglobin and are shaped like doughnuts. These cells are very flexible and move easily through small blood vessels.
Sickled cells become stuck and form plugs in small blood vessels.
This blockage of blood flow can damage the tissue. Because there are blood vessels in all parts of the body, damage can occur anywhere in the body. The best way to help your baby is to learn as much as you can about the disease, the problems it can cause, and what you can do to care for your baby. Talk about this booklet and your baby's health care choices with your doctor and others who know about sickle cell disease. Working together, you can give your child the best possible care.