Can Sickle Cell Be Cured?

People suffering from Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) usually start showing symptoms very early. They can appear to show up even during the first year of life. Symptoms of a sickle cell vary from one person to another and can be mild to serious depending on the condition.

Sickle cell disease is a health condition that worsens with time. Despite the absence of any full-proof solution, some treatments prevent further complications. These treatments can help patients receive aid for a lifetime. Simply said, Sickle cell diseases can be managed medically.

Treatment

Treatment in a Sickle cell patient depends on the severity of the symptoms. Preventing complications and relieving pain is the primary aim of the diagnosis. They can range from medications to blood transfusions.

Concerns

Some of the concerns that need to be taken care of during the treatment of SCD are-

• Prevent Painful scenarios

A painful episode or sickle cell crisis can be avoided by consuming sufficient fluids, wearing warm clothing, and staying away from sudden temperature changes.

• Avoid infections

Children with sickle cell anemia are made safe from infections by using penicillin. Adults with anemia might need to take penicillin all their lives. Doctors should ensure that all vaccinations in children and adults are periodically done to avoid any infections. However, during the Covid-19 pandemic sickle cell patients should take extra care.

Medications

While there can be numerous ways to manage Sickle cell treatment, medications help in a significant way. Some of the prescribed medicines are-

• Hydroxyurea- It reduces the frequency of sickle crises. Pregnant women should stay away from this according to experts.

• Crizanlizumab- This drug injected into the patient can help reduce the sickle crises in adults and children over the age of 16.

• Voxelotor- It is an oral drug used in children over 12. It lowers the risk of anemia by improving blood flow.

• Pain-relievers- Narcotics to prevent excessive pain can also be used during the treatment.

Surgical procedures

• Blood Transfusion

It is used to prevent stroke and other related complications in patients. This can increase the number of red blood cells in the body that can help reduce the symptoms.

• Stem cell transplant

It is also called a bone marrow transplant and is used to replace affected bone marrow with a healthy one. This procedure is carried out between matched donor and recipient. Although it is a known cure for Sickle cell disease, various risks involved make it a less used practice.