Why is the term sickle used?

In sickle cell anemia, some red blood cells become deformed, so they look like sickles used to cut wheat. These unusually shaped cells give the disease its name.

What is sickle status?

A person with sickle cell trait inherits one gene to make normal hemoglobin (A) and another gene to make some sickle cell hemoglobin (S). Hemoglobin is the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen to different parts of the body. Sickle cell trait (AS) usually does not cause any health problems.

What is called sickle?

1 : an agricultural implement consisting of a curved metal blade with a short handle fitted on a tang. 2 : the cutting mechanism (as of a reaper, combine, or mower) consisting of a bar with a series of cutting elements. sickle. adjective.

What is sickle cell?

People with sickle cell disease produce unusually shaped red blood cells that can cause problems because they do not live as long as healthy blood cells and can block blood vessels. Sickle cell disease is a serious and lifelong health condition, although treatment can help manage many of the symptoms.

Where can I get sickle cell trait results?

The California Newborn Screening (NBS) Program has been screening all babies in California for sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait since February 27, 1990. These results will satisfy the NCAA requirement for college student athletes to have documentation of their sickle cell status. Please note:

Can you have a baby with sickle cell trait?

The most important implication that may arise in the future is that you can have a baby with sickle cell trait or even sickle cell disease (a serious condition). If a test is positive, the student-athlete will be offered counseling on the implications of sickle cell trait.

How is sickle cell disease treated in the hospital?

Depending on the cause, treatment might include oxygen, medicine to treat an infection, medicine to open up airways to improve air, and blood transfusions. This can be life-threatening and should be treated in a hospital. It happens when a large number of sickle cells get trapped in the spleen and cause it to suddenly get large.

When do you start to show symptoms of sickle cell disease?

People with SCD start to have signs of the disease during the first year of life, usually around 5 months of age. Symptoms and complications of SCD are different for each person and can range from mild to severe. There is no single best treatment for all people with SCD.