Best Sickle Cell Anemia Doctors in Lucknow

Types/Stages of Sickle Cell Anaemia

Sickle cell anaemia falls under a category of diseases known as sickle cell disease. Variations of this disease depend on the type of abnormal haemoglobin gene inherited, including:

• Haemoglobin SS Disease: This is the most common and severe form where an individual inherits the sickle cell gene from both parents.

• Haemoglobin SC Disease: Occurs when one inherits the sickle cell gene from one parent and another abnormal haemoglobin gene (haemoglobin C) from the other parent.

• Haemoglobin SB+ (beta) Thalassaemia: Results when one inherits the sickle cell gene from one parent and a beta thalassaemia gene from the other.

Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anaemia

Symptoms of sickle cell anaemia typically start manifesting around six months of age. The symptoms vary from patient to patient but often include:

• Fatigue and jaundice, resulting from anaemia

• Severe pain episodes in the chest, abdomen, and joints, also known as sickle cell crisis

• Swelling of hands and feet

• Delayed growth and puberty in children

• Vision problems due to damage to blood vessels in the eyes

Tests to Diagnose Sickle Cell Anaemia

The doctors for sickle cell anaemia treatment at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow utilise several diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose the disease. These include:

• Blood Counts: To check for abnormal haemoglobin levels.

• Blood Films: Microscopic examination of blood to look for sickle-shaped red blood cells.

• Newborn Screening: This allows for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications

• Genetic Testing: Genetic tests can determine if an individual carries one or two copies of the sickle cell gene

Treatment or Surgery Options for Sickle Cell Anaemia at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow

The sickle cell anaemia treatment doctors and surgeons at Apollo Hospitals in Lucknow aim to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. They adopt several approaches, including:

• Antibiotics And Vaccinations: To prevent infections, which can be severe in individuals with sickle cell anaemia.

• Pain Management: Medications are provided for the relief of sickle cell crises.

• Hydroxyurea Medication: This drug increases foetal haemoglobin levels and reduces crisis frequency.

• Blood Transfusions: Used in severe cases of anaemia.

• Stem Cell Transplant: In some cases, this procedure can potentially cure the disease, but it carries significant risks and is usually considered when other treatments have failed.