Sickle Cell Disease Complications: What to Know

Sickle-shaped red blood cells can become less flexible and may block small blood vessels. This can cause episodes of severe pain, tiredness from anaemia, and reduced oxygen delivery. Over time, sickle cell disease may affect the lungs, kidneys, eyes, bones, or spleen. A child or adult may also have slower growth, repeated infections, or difficulty concentrating. The specific pattern differs between people, and regular reviews help identify changes early.

Fatigue, joint pain, or pale skin can have many causes, but they are also symptoms that a clinician may assess in someone with sickle cell disease. A [Blood Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/blood-test/) can help check blood cells and haemoglobin patterns.

Keep appointments with the haematology team and take prescribed medicines as directed. Ask for an individual plan covering fluids, pain treatment, vaccinations, infection prevention, and activity. Avoid known personal triggers such as dehydration, marked cold exposure, or low-oxygen environments when your clinician advises this. Keep a record of pain episodes, fever, breathing symptoms, and changes in energy so the team can adjust care. Family planning or carrier questions can be discussed through [Premarital Screening](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/premarital-screening/).

Seek urgent medical help for fever, chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness, confusion, a severe headache, a seizure, or pain that is intense or does not improve with the agreed plan. Sudden vision changes, severe abdominal swelling, or inability to drink also need prompt assessment. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these symptoms appear. Follow your local emergency service guidance and tell clinicians that you have, or may have, sickle cell disease.

Which complications should we monitor in my age group? What symptoms should trigger an emergency visit? Which tests will check my kidneys, lungs, eyes, and blood? What should my personal pain and fever plan include?