Sickle Cell Anemia Explained | Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options (Medical Animation)

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the structure and function of red blood cells. In this inherited condition, an abnormal form of hemoglobin—known as hemoglobin S (HbS)—causes normally round, flexible red blood cells to become rigid and crescent-shaped (sickle-shaped). These sickle-shaped cells can block blood flow, leading to severe pain episodes, tissue damage, organ complications, and increased risk of infections. Unlike healthy red blood cells, which live about 120 days, sickle cells break down much faster. This results in a shortage of red blood cells, a condition known as anemia. Treatment Options for Sickle Cell Anemia While there is no universal cure, several treatments help manage symptoms, reduce complications, and improve quality of life: Pain management medications for acute and chronic pain episodes Hydroxyurea, a commonly prescribed long-term medication that reduces pain crises and prevents red blood cell damage Crizanlizumab, Voxelotor, and L-Glutamine, which help prevent complications and improve long-term outcomes Blood transfusions during severe pain crises to replace sickled cells with healthy red blood cells Antibiotics and routine vaccinations to help prevent life-threatening infections Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (Potential Cure) For some children and young patients with severe complications, a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (bone marrow transplant) may be recommended. This procedure can potentially cure sickle cell anemia. Before the transplant, patients may receive chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or both to destroy abnormal stem cells in the bone marrow. Healthy stem cells from a compatible donor—often a close family member—are then infused into the bloodstream. These donor cells travel to the bone marrow and begin producing normal red blood cells, replacing sickle cells over time. Learn More Treatment decisions depend on individual symptoms and health conditions. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider to explore the most appropriate treatment options for sickle cell anemia.