Home remedies for sickle cell patients

Though Fatima has been diligent in taking her medications, her only worry is having a big stomach which seems to be increasing overtime. This has been a source of embarrassment for her as she could not wear certain cloths because of her budging stomach. According to the Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at […]

Though Fatima has been diligent in taking her medications, her only worry is having a big stomach which seems to be increasing overtime. This has been a source of embarrassment for her as she could not wear certain cloths because of her budging stomach.

According to the Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Dr Nathaniel Adewole, “abdominal distention in sickle cell patients is usually due to organomegaly (abnormal enlargement of organs). The most common organ affected is the spleen. It becomes more pronounced during sequestration crisis. With time there may be autosplenectomy (almost complete disappearance of the spleen through progressive fibrosis and shrinkage).”

Sickle cell anaemia is an inherited form of anaemia — a condition in which there aren’t enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen throughout your body.

Normally, the red blood cells are flexible and round, moving easily through the blood vessels. In sickle cell anaemia, the red blood cells become rigid and sticky and are shaped like sickles or crescent moons. These irregularly shaped cells can get stuck in small blood vessels, which can slow or block blood flow and oxygen to parts of the body.

There’s no cure for most people with sickle cell anaemia. However, treatments can relieve pain and help prevent further problems associated with sickle cell anaemia.

Dr. Adewole explains that “usually all sickle cell patients are on folic acid and anti-malaria prophylactics on daily basis. You must take steps to prevent malaria and other infections and in case you have them to treat early to avoid complications like sequestration crisis.”

It has been discovered that the bone marrow needs folic acid and other vitamins to make new red blood cells often.

To reduce the abdominal size, (like in the case of Fatima), Adewole suggests this: “light abdominal muscle exercise may be beneficial where appropriate but you need your physician assessment of the possible cause or causes and his counseling on how to address the problem.”

Health experts say taking steps to stay healthy may help you avoid complications of sickle cell anaemia. If you or your child has sickle cell anaemia, follow these suggestions to help stay healthy:

Choose a healthy diet: You can increase the number of vitamins you eat each day by choosing a diet that focuses on a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains.

Drink plenty of water: Dehydration can increase your risk of a sickle cell crisis. Drink water throughout your day. Increase the amount of water you drink if you exercise or live in an area that is hot.

Avoid temperature extremes: Exposure to extreme heat or cold can increase your risk of a sickle cell crisis.

Reduce stress: A sickle cell crisis can occur as a result of stress.

Exercise regularly, but don’t overdo it: Talk with your doctor about how much exercise is right for you.

Use medications with caution: Medical experts say some medications, such as the decongestant pseudoephedrine, can constrict your blood vessels and make it harder for the sickle cells to move through freely.