Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a series of genetic blood abnormalities. Due to hemoglobin damage, your red blood cells (RBCs) lose their adaptable donut shape and adopt a “C” shape. These cells become sticky and hard and have a shorter lifespan than ordinary RBCs.
People with SCD experience a continual shortage of RBCs as a result. The leftover cells can readily block blood flow or easily get caught in blood arteries.
Your body’s RBCs transport substances like iron, protein, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. Anemia, weakness, and weariness can all result from an RBC deficiency. SCD patients frequently have anemia and other blood flow problems because of their sickle-shaped RBCs. The most typical course of treatment for these problems is still blood transfusions.
You can obtain blood that matches your blood type through a blood transfusion. If you have SCD and are anemic, a transfusion can aid you by increasing your body’s RBC supply. This enables your body to carry nutrients and essential gases.
The advantages, hazards, and process of blood transfusions in SCD patients will all be covered in this article.
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What Advantages Can Blood Transfusions Have for Those Who Have Sickle Cell Disease?
Your RBCs can be replaced via a transfusion, allowing more oxygen to go to your organs and tissues. The sickle-shaped, sticky cells can be diluted by adding extra blood with healthy RBCs via a transfusion. This prevents them from accumulating and obstructing blood flow in your blood vessels.
Your body might not get the oxygen it needs without a transfusion, which could lead to hypoxemia and other issues.
You may benefit from a blood transfusion if you experience a sudden or acute SCD complication, such as:
- Anemia
- Sudden chest pain
- Abrupt splenic enlargement
Blood transfusions can help maintain your RBC count because SCD is a chronic illness and can lead to
