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Managing with Sickle Cell Disorder 

Things to help you keep well

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  • Drink Water- It is very important that you stay hydrated.  Dry cells get sluggish and die sooner, causing the production of more sickle cells that block your veins and arteries — resulting in crisis

  • Attend all your appointments

  • Eat a well-balanced diet, with plenty of leafy green vegetables, whole grains and protein.  

  • Exercise is important to help circulation.  Regular exercise helps keep your physical body strong and increases oxygen dispersal around your body.  (Please be careful not to reach the point of exhaustion, as this will cause an adverse effect resulting in crisis)

  • Enjoy warm baths 

  • Massages can contribute to well being

  • Spend time with caring friends and family who will support you and make you feel positive

  • You can try alternative therapies such as aromatherapy massage, or  therapy to relieve stress, worry and anxiety that they may have experienced and to avoid crises

  • Make sure you take your medication 

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Sickle pain is different to other types of pain. Try to manage your pain.

Thought patterns can change the way you handle pain. Positive thinking and positive attitude can contribute to your health.

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Things to prevent from having a crisis 

Many things can contribute to a crisis.  It’s vital to get to know the factors that trigger a sickle cell crisis for you, and to avoid those things.

They may include:

  • Not drinking enough water (you become dehydrated)

  • Not taking medications and vaccines

  • Becoming too hot or too cold

  • Excessive physical exercise/exertion

  • Emotional stress and anxiety

  • Infections

  • Not eating a well balanced diet

  • Drinking Alcohol

  • Smoking

  • Travelling without taking extra precaution 

  • Menopause

  • Fevers

  • Blood Loss

  • Living in poverty

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In spite of all the precautions we may take to avoid a sickle crisis, illnesses can still occur, but by  taking these precautions can help to minimise situations that could cause crisis or more serious complications.

By managing your care, maintaining a positive mental attitude, getting the right support and taking steps to maintain your well-being can help you to live an adventurous and fulfilled life.

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