Hemoglobin S

Everything to Know About Hemoglobin S

About

Genetic abnormality as an unusual variant of hemoglobin, causing the red blood cells to become hard, rigid, brittle and sickle-shaped.

Hemoglobin S is not contagious, it is an inherited disease, people affected are born with it. [1]

1. Treatment can help with symptoms
2. Medically-diagnosed
3. Vaccines and hygiene can prevent infections
4. Lab tests and imaging are required
5. Chronic: lasts for life

Hemoglobin S from one parent and another abnormal variant from another can develop chances of having sickle cell disease (SCD). The irregularly shaped RBCs can’t move through small veins, and thus oxygen transport gets affected. The condition becomes anemic. About 1 in every 50 Asians carry a sickle cell trait.

Symptoms

1. Jaundice
2. Pain in abdomen, chest, bones, joints
3. Fatigue and fussiness because of anemia
4. Painful swelling of hands and feet
5. Fever
6. Paleness of skin and nail-bed

Treatment

Self-care:
1. Eat properly washed fruits and vegetables
2. Avoid consumption of undercooked eggs and meat, unpasteurized milk, etc.
3. Stay hydrated.
4. Exercise but not excessively.

Medications: An antibiotic may be prescribed for every day until age 5. Folic acid supplements and Hydroxyurea medicines may be prescribed.

Specialists: Consult a doctor if the symptoms are evident and the condition worsens. At mfine, we provide accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plans for all health concerns under a team of qualified doctors.