Sickle Cell Disease: Description and Symptoms

Healthy red blood cells are flexible and carry oxygen through small vessels. In sickle cell disease, some cells become firm and curved, break down sooner, and may block circulation. This can cause anaemia, with fatigue, reduced stamina, or pale skin, and episodes of pain in bones, the chest, abdomen, or joints. The condition is present from birth, although symptoms and their intensity can change with age and circumstances.

Sickle cell disease is not the same as sickle cell trait. A [Blood Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/blood-test/) can help distinguish haemoglobin patterns and support a diagnosis.

Care usually combines regular reviews, prevention, vaccinations, prescribed medicines, and a clear plan for pain or fever. Keep hydrated according to your clinician's advice, learn your warning symptoms, and share the diagnosis with every healthcare professional involved in your care. Ask about monitoring for organ effects and support with school, work, exercise, or pregnancy planning. Families may also discuss genetic results through [Premarital Screening](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/premarital-screening/).

Seek urgent care for fever, chest pain, breathing difficulty, severe pain, sudden weakness, confusion, a seizure, fainting, or sudden vision change. Repeated vomiting or inability to drink can make illness worse and also needs prompt help. A healthcare team can assess whether symptoms represent a crisis, infection, anaemia, or another problem. Do not rely on symptom severity alone if your written plan sets an earlier threshold.

Which type of sickle cell disease do I have? How will we monitor my blood and organs? What is my plan for pain and fever? Which activities or situations need extra preparation? Should my relatives or partner consider testing?