Stroke in sickle cell disease is uncommon but a stroke may be life-threatening. Weakness of one side of the body. Loss of, or blurred vision. Fainting and dizziness. Coma, child won't wake up.
Treatment includes blood transfusion.
Sometimes, the child who has a stroke may return to normal within several days. However, there may be physical weakness or disabilities requiring special therapy. Almost all children with sickle cell disease will have a sickle cell crisis at some point in their lives. Some children have them very often. A fever or infection, exposure to extreme heat or cold, physical exhaustion, and usual stress or anxiety may also trigger the pain.