Sickle Cell Anemia Patient Education from University of Colorado Hospital
Living with Sickle Cell Anemia
If you have sickle cell anemia, you can manage the condition. It is important to get regular medical care. This can help to prevent severe bouts of pain, known as sickle cell crises. These crises occur when the sickle cells clump together and block blood flow.
Steps to take to manage the condition include:
- Seeking treatment at the first sign of an infection
- Avoiding extremes of hot and cold weather
- Reducing stress
- Eating a diet rich in vitamin A and folic acid. Each of these vitamins helps your body to produce red blood cells
- Drinking plenty of water
- Exercising moderately on a regular basis
- Getting regular rest
- Avoiding tobacco and alcohol
Getting a Second Opinion About Sickle Cell Anemia
A second opinion is worth considering if your doctor does not know why you are anemic. You may also want to seek a second opinion if a treatment for anemia does not seem to work.
Additional Sickle Cell Anemia Resources
Colorado Sickle Cell Treatment and Research Center
Medline Plus
American Sickle Cell Anemia Association
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute