Sickle Cell Anemia: Symptoms
An inherited disease in which the red blood cells have an abnormal crescent shape, block small blood vessels, and do not last as long as normal red blood cells. Sickle cell anemia is caused by a mutation (change) in a gene.
Part of: Sickle Cell Anemia
About Signs and Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia
The signs and symptoms of sickle cell anemia vary. Some people have mild symptoms. Others have very severe symptoms and often are hospitalized for treatment.
Sickle cell anemia is present at birth, but many infants don’t show any signs until after 4 months of age.
The most common signs and symptoms are linked to anemia and pain. Other signs and symptoms are linked to the disease’s complications.
Signs and Symptoms Related to Anemia
The most common symptom of anemia is fatigue (feeling tired or weak). Other signs and symptoms of anemia include:
Shortness of breath Dizziness Headaches Coldness in the hands and feet Paler than normal skin or mucous membranes (the tissue that lines your nose, mouth, and other organs and body cavities) Jaundice (a yellowish color of the skin or whites of the eyes)Signs and Symptoms Related to Pain
Sudden pain throughout the body is a common symptom of sickle cell anemia… Read more about Sickle Cell Anemia: Symptoms