SICKLING CRISIS

Updated 7/24

Sickle cell anemia is a form of anemia common to certain peoples in areas of the world, like Africa, Caribbean and Mediterranean. The red blood cells are not rounded, but have a sickle shape. Red blood cells carry oxygen and in sickle cell anemia, their ability is limited. In a crisis, the cells clump and occlude the veins, not arteries as these have high pressure.

Conditions such as anxiety , dehydration, infection or trauma may trigger a sickling crisis. Difficulty breathing and excruciating pain are symptoms of a crisis. Treatment is directed at giving oxygen, monitoring vital signs and correcting the cause. Magnesium Sulfate is also used to treat this condition.