What Are the Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia? Symptoms of sickle cell anemia usually show up at a young age. They may appear in babies as early as 4 months old. Anemia is a shortage of RBCs. Sickle cells are easily broken. This breaking apart of RBCs is called chronic hemolysis. RBCs generally live for about 120 days. Sickle cells live for a maximum of 10 to 20 days.
Who Is at Risk For Sickle Cell Anemia? Children are only at risk for sickle cell if both parents carry sickle cell trait. People from regions that have endemic malaria are more likely to be carriers. This includes people from Africa, India, the Mediterranean, and Saudi Arabia.
Splenic Sequestration Splenic sequestration is a blockage of the splenic vessels by sickle cells. It causes acute, painful enlargement of the spleen.
Delayed Growth Delayed growth often occurs in people with sickle cell anemia. Children are generally shorter but regain their height by adulthood. Sexual maturation may also be delayed. This happens because sickle cell RBCs can’t supply enough oxygen and nutrients.
Hand-foot syndrome Hand-Foot Syndrome occurs when sickle-shaped RBCs block blood vessels in the hands or feet. This causes the hands and feet to swell. It can also cause leg ulcers. Swollen hands and feet are often the first sign of sickle cell anemia in babies.