18.1.4

Sickle Cell Symptoms

Test yourself

Sickle Cell Anaemia

Sickle cell anaemia is a recessive, inherited blood disorder where a change in the base sequence for haemoglobin results in abnormal haemoglobin and crescent-shaped red blood cells. This condition causes the following symptoms as a result:

Illustrative background for Painful episodes (sickle cell crises)Illustrative background for Painful episodes (sickle cell crises) ?? "content

Painful episodes (sickle cell crises)

  • These episodes can last up to seven days and cause severe pain in parts of the body, such as hands, feet, spine and ribs.
Illustrative background for AnaemiaIllustrative background for Anaemia ?? "content

Anaemia

  • People with anaemia can't carry enough oxygen in their blood.
Illustrative background for Increased number and severity of infectionsIllustrative background for Increased number and severity of infections ?? "content

Increased number and severity of infections

  • People with the condition are more easily infected by other pathogens (diseases).
Illustrative background for Other symptomsIllustrative background for Other symptoms ?? "content

Other symptoms

  • Other symptoms include ulcers, kidney problems and strokes.

Jump to other topics

1Classification of Living Organisms

2Organisation of the Organism

3Movement Into & Out of Cells

4Biological Molecules

5Enzymes

6Plant Nutrition

7Human Nutrition

8Transport in Plants

9Transport in Animals

10Diseases & Immunity

11Gas Exchange in Humans

12Respiration

13Excretion in Humans

14Coordination & Response

15Drugs

16Reproduction

17Inheritance

18Variation & Selection

19Organisms & Their Environment

20Human Influence on Ecosystems

21Biotechnology & Genetic Modification

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium