_People
with sickle cell disease can live full lives and enjoy most of the
activities that other people do. The following tips will help you, or
someone you know with sickle cell disease, stay as healthy as possible.
Find Good Medical Care
Sickle cell disease is a complex disease. Good
quality medical care from doctors and nurses who know a lot about the
disease can help prevent some serious problems. Often the best choice
is a hematologist (a doctor who specializes in blood diseases) working
with a team of specialists.
Get Regular Checkups
Regular health checkups with a primary care doctor can help prevent some serious problems.
Babies from birth to 1 year of age should see a doctor every 2 to 3 months.
Children from 1 to 2 years of age should see a doctor at least every 3 months.
Children and adults from 2 years of age or older should see a doctor at least once every year.
Learn Healthy Habits
People with sickle cell disease should drink 8
to 10 glasses of water every day and eat healthy food. Try not to get
too hot, too cold, or too tired.
Children can, and should, participate in
physical activity to help stay healthy. However, it’s important that
they don’t overdo it, rest when tired, and drink plenty of water.
Look for clinical studies
New clinical research studies
are happening all the time to find better treatments and, hopefully, a
cure for sickle cell disease. People who participate in these studies
might have access to new medicines and treatment options.
Get support
Find a patient support group or community-based
organization that can provide information, assistance, and support.