Sickle cell is a genetic disorder that affects red blood cells, leading to a range of symptoms and complications. While the symptoms of sickle cell can vary greatly from person to person, it is generally accepted that the condition can get worse with age. In this article, we will discuss the ways in which sickle cell can worsen as a person ages and what can be done to manage the condition.
Symptoms of Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder of the red blood cells that can cause a range of symptoms. These symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, pain, and anemia. While the severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person, it is generally accepted that they tend to worsen with age.
Complications of Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease can also lead to a range of complications. These can include stroke, acute chest syndrome, pulmonary hypertension, and organ damage. In particular, stroke is a major complication of sickle cell disease, and the risk increases with age. Similarly, acute chest syndrome is a condition that can arise as a result of sickle cell disease, and the risk of developing this condition increases with age.
Treatment of Sickle Cell Disease
There is no cure for sickle cell disease, but there are a range of treatments available to help manage the condition and its symptoms. These treatments can include medications, blood transfusions, and stem cell transplants. While these treatments can help to manage the symptoms of sickle cell, they may not be able to prevent the condition from getting worse with age.
Conclusion
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects red blood cells, leading to a range of symptoms and complications. It is generally accepted that the condition can get worse with age, with an increased risk of developing stroke and acute chest syndrome. While there is no cure for sickle cell disease, there are a range of treatments available to help manage the condition and its symptoms.