How does sickle cell anaemia work?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about sickle cell anaemia, specifically seeking to understand its nature, causes, effects, and possibly its treatment. It is likely looking for a general explanation about the condition.
Answer
Sickle cell anaemia causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped, which blocks blood flow and reduces oxygen delivery.
Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that causes irregularly shaped hemoglobin (hemoglobin S) in red blood cells. This makes the cells rigid and sickle-shaped, leading to clumping, which blocks blood flow and causes pain. The abnormal shape also reduces oxygen delivery throughout the body.
Answer for screen readers
Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that causes irregularly shaped hemoglobin (hemoglobin S) in red blood cells. This makes the cells rigid and sickle-shaped, leading to clumping, which blocks blood flow and causes pain. The abnormal shape also reduces oxygen delivery throughout the body.
More Information
Sickle cell anemia is a serious condition that requires ongoing medical care and can lead to severe pain episodes, organ damage, and complications such as stroke.
Tips
A common misunderstanding is confusing sickle cell disease with iron deficiency anemia; they are distinct conditions.
Sources
- Sickle cell anemia - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic - mayoclinic.org
- What Is Sickle Cell Disease? | NHLBI, NIH - nhlbi.nih.gov
- Sickle Cell Disease - Hematology.org - hematology.org
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