What is sickle cell disease?

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Sickle cell disease is also known as sickle cell anemia, is a condition where there is not enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body.

 

Sickle cell anemia is inherited as an autosomal recessive condition. In normal red blood cells, the cells are usually flexible and round. However, in sickle cell disease the red cells become rigid and sticky. They are shaped like sickles or crescent moons. Because these cells are irregular, they can get stuck in small blood vessels, which blocks the blood from flowing.

 

Without enough red blood cells in circulation a person's body cannot get the adequate amounts of oxygen needed to feel energized.