Sickle cell disease can cause problems all over the body. Because most patients with sickle cell disease have anemia, they may have decreased energy. They can also develop jaundice and/or gallstones from the broken red blood cells.
Because sickle-shaped cells reduce the flow of blood through a person's blood vessels, patients may experience:
Episodes of pain and/or infection
Damage to organs (lungs, kidneys, liver, spleen)
Damage to joints (usually hips and knees)
Priapism
Stroke, in more severe cases
It's important for your child to have regular appointments with his/her hematologist to monitor blood count and any current symptoms. If your child has an acute pain crisis, fever, or other concerning symptom, seek medical care immediately.