EXAM 3: Sickle Cell Disease Flashcards
What is sickle cell disease? How does sickle cell disease affect red blood cells?
Genetic, multisystem and progressive disease. Causes abnormal, sickled red blood cells (abnormal hemoglobin form strands that cause sickle shape)
What are the complications of sickle cell disease? Most/least common?
- Most common - Pain (sickled cells get stuck when moving through small blood vessels, this can block blood flow)
- Pulmonary and cardiac complications (acute chest syndrome)
- Strokes/central nervous system complications (symptomatic stroke, silent stroke)
- Weakened bones + joints
- Vision Loss
- Fertility and pregnancy issues
How does sickle cell disease affect the central nervous system?
It affects the central nervous system by causing strokes
What are the recommended lifestyle changes to help manage sickle cell disease?
- Drinking Water (8-10 glasses/day)
- Avoid getting too hot/cold
- Avoid high attitudes (e.g., flying)
- Avoid exposure to low oxygen levels (extreme exercise)
- Does the prevalence of sickle cell disease vary by race? In what racial group does sickle cell disease most commonly occur?
What psychological functions does sickle cell anemia often effect?
- Low executive function, attention, and processing speed
- Lower academic achievement
- Higher sxs of depression + anxiety
- Lower self-esteem and decreased social activities
- Lower health-related quality-of-life (HRQol)
What does treatment for sickle cell disease look like?
- Lifestyle/Behavior Change
- Medical Interventions (Vaccines, antibiotics)
- Frequent blood transfusions
- Hydroxyurea
How does sickle cell disease affect red blood cells?
Abnormal Hemoglobin forms strands that cause sickle shape
How does sickle cell disease affect acute and chronic pain?
- Acute pain (blockage in blood flow)
- Chronic (damage from repeated restricted blood flow to tissues
What is transition of care? How does transition of care often effect health for people with sickle cell?
- Transition (18-30) is often difficult
- Characterized by increasing response + independence (communicating with healthcare providers, making medication decisions, responsiblities for self-care)
