What causes pain during dehydration in a sickle cell anemia patient?

Question

Hello doctor,

Sickle cell anemia is my problem. I am 30 years old. While dehydrated, I am experiencing pain.

Is this issue dangerous?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Yes, sickle cell anemia is a disease where the RBC (red blood cell) shape changes, while dehydration and oxygen levels go down in the body. Usually, red blood cells will be round and plate-shaped. During dehydration and less oxygen time, the shape of the red blood cell becomes a sickle shape. Now, RBC will stick together and block the blood vessels and produce ischemia.

So to reduce the obstruction, you need more fluids. If an obstruction is in the lungs, spleen, kidneys, or any organ, it is dangerous and severely painful. So avoid dehydration conditions, do not do severe exercise, and avoid going to hill stations where oxygen is less. Drink adequate water.

I hope it helped with the query.

Please let me know if you have any more questions on your mind.

I would be happy to guide you.

Thank you.