Treatment/Therapies

Sickle cell health maintenance starts with early diagnosis preferably in the newborn period and includes vaccination against phneumoccus bacteria, penicillin prophylaxis and folic acid supple mentation. Treatment for complications, like the crises that come along with sickle cell, include antibiotics, pain management, intravenous fluids, blood transfusion, and surgery all backed up by psychosocial support. A drug, Hydroxyurea, is prescribed for the frequency of severe pain. And the drug mentioned in Topic 4, Droxia, which is a prescription form of Hydroxyurea is available for adult patients with sickle cell anemia. And blood transfusions can help reducing recurring pain crises, risk of stroke and other complications.