Health

WHAT IS SICKLE CELL ANEMIA.

Sickle cell anemia is among a spectrum of disease that affect the red blood cell structure and function.

These group of disease affect the haemoglobin; which is the oxygen carrying substance inside the red blood cell.

The problem with sickle cell anemia is that an abnormal protein is form due to genetic alteration from birth. These abnormal protein of the haemoglobin (Hb) causes the Hb to function suboptimally.

The Hb could not carry oxygen properly.

Secondly, the normal red blood cell is very pliable. Which means it can be squeezed in a narrow passage. This is the usually case when red blood cell (RBC) passes through the capillaries which is the smallest blood vessel.

The RBC in a sickle cell anemia patient is not pliable like normal one.
It would squeeze but cannot pass through it effectively.
It finally take the shape of the capilaries.
It takes a sickle shape. Hence the name sickle cell anemia.
The normal RBC is disc shaped.

The sickle cell anemia, the sickled cell can not pass through the capillary.

Which leads to reduce Oxygen and blockage of the capillaries.

The RBC also get destroy .

These leads to recurring pain , low blood level, jaundicr.

Can it be prevented, what of cure.

To be continued........