National Sickle Cell Month

9/14/2019

Sickle cell disease affects an estimated 100,000 Americans, mainly affecting 1 in 13 African Americans according to the CDC. Sickle cell disease is when the red blood cells get hard, sticky, and have a shape like a C. Sickle cells die early, which causes a shortage in red blood cells. They also travel through small blood vessels, sticking and clogging the blood flow which leads to complications such as infections, acute chest syndrome, pulmonary hypertension, and stroke.

Sickle cell is a genetic condition that is usually present at birth. It is caused by both parents passing on the sickle cell genes. It causes symptoms, such as anemia, swelling, vision problems, and delayed growth. Treatments are important and they usually include medications, bone marrow or stem cell transplant, and vaccinations to help prevent infections.

Fighting sickle cell disease is hard, that is why having the right treatment is important. SecondOpinions.com believes your health is important and that’s why a second opinion at an affordable price is a must in order to find what will help you feel better.