GENETIC ENGINEERING: GENETIC DISEASES

Sickle Cell Anaemia: Treatment

Early diagnosis and prevention of complications is critical in sickle
cell disease treatment. Other treatment may include:

pain medications (for sickle cell crises)

drinking plenty of water daily (eight to 10 glasses) or receiving
fluid intravenously (to prevent and treat pain crises)

blood transfusions
For anemia and to prevent stroke, blood transfusions may be used.
Transfusions are also used to dilute the HbS with normal hemoglobin to
treat chronic pain, acute chest syndrome, splenic sequestration, and
other emergencies.

penicillin (to prevent infections)

folic acid (to help prevent severe anemia)

Hydroxyurea - a medication that has recently been developed that may
help reduce the frequency of pain crises and acute chest syndrome. It
may also help decrease the need for frequent blood transfusions. The
long-term effects of the medication, however, are unknown.

Bone marrow transplant  - has been effective in curing some persons with
sickle cell disease; the decision to undergo this procedure is based
on the severity of the disease and ability to find a suitable bone
marrow donor. These decisions need to be discussed with your
physician.

There is no cure for sickle cell anemia, and it is possible for some people to die from the disease.