Sickle cell anemia is a type of sickle cell disease, which is a group of inherited disorders that affect hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen through the body. In sickle cell anemia, the hemoglobin is abnormal, causing red blood cells to become rigid, sticky, and misshapen, taking on a C-shaped or sickle shape. These sickle cells die early, causing a constant shortage of red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. The sickle cells can also get stuck and clog blood flow, leading to pain and infections.

Symptoms of sickle cell anemia usually appear around 6 months of age and can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include anemia, fatigue, swelling of hands and feet, unexplained numbness, severe headache, and chronic pain. People with sickle cell anemia can also develop complications such as leg ulcers, gallstones, and stroke.

Sickle cell anemia is caused by a change in the gene that tells the body to make hemoglobin. A person will be born with sickle cell anemia only if they inherit two genes, one from each parent, that code for abnormal hemoglobin. People who inherit just one gene are healthy but are said to be carriers of the disease and have an increased chance of having a child with sickle cell anemia if they have a child with another carrier.

There is no cure for sickle cell anemia, but treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment options include pain management, blood transfusions, and bone marrow transplants. Its important for people with sickle cell anemia to learn how to stay as healthy as possible and manage their condition with the help of healthcare professionals.