Symptoms of SICKLE-CELL ANEMIA AND SICKLE-CELL TRAIT

Sickle cell disease can lead to anemia, with shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, fatigue, and exercise intolerance. Jaundice - yellowing of the skin and eyes can occur from the destruction of many red cells. Repeated episodes of pain occur in the joints, chest, abdomen and back. Frequent infections, especially pneumonia, may develop. Delayed growth and delayed development in children and infants can occur. Skin ulcers may develop, particularly in the legs. It the retina is affected (the lining of the back of the eye that converts light to nerve impulses), visual symptoms can occur. Abdominal pain can develop, especially in the left upper abdomen, if the spleen in injured. The breakdown of red cells can lead to the development of stones in the gallbladder. This can produce left upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and pale stools. If an artery in the brain is blocked, it can lead to a stoke.