Most common complication of sickle cell disease

A crisis may cause deep pain in the bones, chest, abdomen or joints. Reduced oxygen delivery can also contribute to anaemia, which may leave someone unusually tired or with pale skin. Episodes vary in intensity and can be triggered by dehydration, infection, cold exposure or physical stress. Sickle cell disease itself is a lifelong blood condition; a pain episode needs assessment in context rather than being assumed to have one cause.

Follow the personal plan provided by the haematology team. Rest, drink fluids if you can, keep warm and use prescribed pain relief exactly as directed. Do not delay contacting the treating team if pain is severe, unusual or not settling. A blood test may help assess anaemia, infection or another change. Regular specialist follow-up helps review medicines, vaccinations and ways to reduce future crises.

Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness, confusion, a seizure, a severe headache, high fever, marked abdominal swelling or pain that is rapidly worsening. An unusually pale appearance, extreme fatigue or reduced alertness also deserves prompt assessment. Children with a painful episode, fever or breathing symptoms should be assessed without waiting for symptoms to pass.

Ask which symptoms should trigger an emergency visit, what to include in your home pain plan, how to recognise worsening anaemia and whether your current follow-up or blood tests need changing.