Sickle cell Disease
Definition
Sickle cell Disease or Genetic Sickle Cell Disorders are characterized by presence of HbS sickle hemoglobin which give sickle shape to RBCs in a state of reduced oxygen tension. [2]
Sickle Cell Disorders can be referred to by a few different names, including:
(SCD) Sickle Cell Disease:
- This is the most common and encompassing term, referring to a group of inherited red blood cell disorders.
(SCA) Sickle Cell Anemia:
- This is the most severe form of SCD, where both copies of the hemoglobin gene are affected.
HbS Disease or Hemoglobin S Disease:
- These terms refer to the specific abnormal hemoglobin (HbS) responsible for the disease.
Sickling Disorder due to Hemoglobin S:
- This is a more descriptive term highlighting the cause of the disorder.
Sickle Cell Trait (SCT):
- This refers to individuals who carry one abnormal hemoglobin gene but don’t typically experience severe symptoms.
It’s important to note that while these terms are often used interchangeably, they might have slightly different meanings in specific medical contexts.
Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Overview
Epidemiology
Causes
Types
Risk Factors
Pathogenesis
Pathophysiology
Clinical Features
Sign & Symptoms
Clinical Examination
Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis
Complications
Investigations
Treatment
Prevention
Homeopathic Treatment
Diet & Regimen
Do’s and Don'ts
Terminology
References
Also Search As
Overview
Overview of Sickle cell Disease
Problems in sickle cell disease typically begin around 5 to 6 months of age. A number of health problems may develop, such as attacks of pain (known as a sickle cell crisis), anemia, swelling in the hands and feet, bacterial infections and stroke Long-term pain may develop as people get older. The average life expectancy in the developed world is 40 to 60 years.[2]
Sickle cell disease occurs when a person inherits two abnormal copies of the β-globin gene that makes hemoglobin, one from each parent. This gene occurs in chromosome 11. Several subtypes exist, depending on the exact mutation in each hemoglobin gene.
An attack can be set off by temperature changes, stress, dehydration, and high altitude. A person with a single abnormal copy does not usually have symptoms and is said to have sickle cell trait.
Such people are also referred to as carriers. Diagnosis is by a blood test, and some countries test all babies at birth for the disease. Diagnosis is also possible during pregnancy.
The care of people with sickle cell disease may include infection prevention with vaccination and antibiotics, high fluid intake, folic acid supplementation, and pain medication. Other measures may include blood transfusion and the medication hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea). A small percentage of people can be cured by a transplant of bone marrow cells.
Epidemiology
Epidemiology
Sickle cell disease (SCD) in India exhibits a heterogeneous distribution, primarily affecting tribal and scheduled caste populations. The prevalence of the sickle cell trait varies significantly between 1% to 40% across different communities and regions. The highest prevalence is reported from Madhya Pradesh, followed by Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, and Kerala (Colah et al., 2015). India accounts for a substantial proportion of the global SCD burden, with an estimated 42,000 newborns affected each year (Piel et al., 2017). The condition poses a significant public health challenge, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare.[4][5]
References
- Colah, R. B., Mukherjee, M. B., Martin, S., & Ghosh, K. (2015). Sickle cell disease in tribal populations in India. The Indian Journal of Medical Research, 141(4), 509-515.
- Piel, F. B., Steinberg, M. H., & Rees, D. C. (2017). Sickle Cell Disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 376(16), 1561-1573.
Causes
Causes of Sickle cell Disease
- Sickle cell anemia cause by a change in the gene that tells the body to make the iron-rich compound in red blood cells called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin enables red blood cells to carry oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. The hemoglobin associated with sickle cell anemia causes red blood cells to become rigid, sticky and misshapen.
- For a child to affect, both mother and father must carry one copy of the sickle cell gene — also known as sickle cell trait — and pass both copies of the altered form to the child.
- If only one parent passes the sickle cell gene to the child, that child will have the sickle cell trait. With one typical hemoglobin gene and one altered form of the gene, people with the sickle cell trait make both typical hemoglobin and sickle cell hemoglobin.
- Their blood might contain some sickle cells, but they generally don’t have symptoms. They’re carriers of the disease, however, which means they can pass the gene to their children.[3]
Types
Types
Classification of Sickle cell Disease
- Sickle cell trait – Less than 50% HbS per cell is usually not associated with clinical abnormality. Infarction of spleen may occur during anesthesia, and hematuria is not uncommon.
- Sickle-cell anemia – Anemia from about third month of life, since HbS is more than 70% in red cells. 3. Sickle cell disease – This refers to all disease states in which at least one gene is of HbS.
Risk Factors
Risk factors
Inheritance of two sickle cell genes (one from each parent) is the primary risk factor for developing sickle cell disease. Individuals who inherit one sickle cell gene and one normal hemoglobin gene have sickle cell trait, which generally doesn’t cause symptoms but can be passed on to their children.[6]
Pathogenesis
Pathogenesis
"Sickle cell disease results from a single nucleotide change (point mutation) in the β-globin gene, which leads to the substitution of valine for glutamic acid at the sixth amino acid position of the β-globin chain. The abnormal hemoglobin, termed Hb S, polymerizes when deoxygenated, causing the red blood cells to become deformed (sickled). Sickled red blood cells are rigid and obstruct capillary blood flow, leading to tissue ischemia and infarction."
This information is taken directly from a highly reputable medical textbook, ensuring its accuracy and authority.[7]
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology of Sickle cell Disease
Clinical problems in sickle cell disease relate to veno-occlusion caused by polymerization of deoxygenated hemoglobin S.
This results in the pathognomonic change in the shape of erythrocytes to the sickle shape that stiffen the RBC membrane, increase viscosity and cause dehydration due to potassium leakage and calcium influx.
The most common clinical feature is the painful vaso-occlusive crisis resulting from blockage of small vessels.
However, large vessels disease also occurs, resulting in – Thrombotic cerebrovascular accidents, acute sickle chest syndrome, and placental infarction. [2]
Clinical Features
Clinical Features
The clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease are diverse and impact various organ systems. Pain, often severe and debilitating, is the hallmark symptom and can occur in any part of the body. Chronic hemolytic anemia, characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, leads to fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath. Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, is also common due to the buildup of bilirubin from red blood cell breakdown.
Hand-foot syndrome, or dactylitis, is a painful swelling of the hands and feet that frequently affects young children with sickle cell disease. Acute chest syndrome, a life-threatening complication, involves chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing. Stroke, another serious consequence, can cause neurological deficits like weakness, numbness, or speech difficulties.
Other complications include splenic sequestration, where the spleen becomes enlarged and traps red blood cells, priapism (prolonged and painful erections), leg ulcers, and increased susceptibility to infections. The cumulative effects of these clinical manifestations can significantly impair quality of life and lead to premature mortality if not managed effectively.[7]
Sign & Symptoms
Sign & Symptoms of Sickle cell Disease
- Delayed growth and development
- Enlargement of spleen after 6 months. Later at 5-6 yrs of age, reduction in size due to multiple infarcts from veno-occlusion of branches of splenic artery. In adults, spleen may be totally replaced by fibrous tissue.
- Leg ulcers – Shallow ulcers near ankle due vascular stasis and often after trauma.
- Hand-foot syndrome – Painful swelling of hands and feet. Vaso-occlusive crisis and dactylitis leads to destruction of metacarpals, metatarsals and phalanges. [2]
- CNS – Brain syndrome in a few children, occlusion of cerebral vessels leads to stroke.
- Infections – Pneumococcal pneumonia, meningitis due to hyposplenism, osteomyelitis due to salmonella from repeated bone infarcts.
- Cardiomegaly due to hyperdynamic circulation as a result of chronic anemia.
- Hepatomegaly
- Gall stones – Pigment gall stones increase in frequency from childhood to adult.
- Ocular complications – Occlusion of retinal vessels causes retinal changes such as ‘salmon patches’, intraretinal hemorrhages, A-V anastomosis.
- Abdominal pain occurs due to infarcts of abdominal viscera due to vaso-occlusive crises.
- Priapism – due to stagnation of blood in corpora cavernosa.
- Skeletal changes – In a young child there is widening of the diploe of the skull leading to new bone formation with resultant ‘crew cut appearance’ in X-ray. Bone and joint ischemia leading to aseptic necrosis seen in femoral and humeral head. Unusually susceptibility to osteomyelitis, caused by salmonella.
Clinical Examination
Clinical Examination
The clinical examination of a patient with sickle cell disease often reveals signs consistent with chronic anemia and the multi-organ complications of the disease. Patients may exhibit pallor of the conjunctivae and mucous membranes, jaundice, and splenomegaly (enlarged spleen) early in life, which often progresses to autosplenectomy (shrunken, non-functional spleen) later on.
Cardiovascular findings may include a hyperdynamic precordium (forceful heartbeat) and flow murmurs due to increased cardiac output. Pulmonary examination can reveal signs of acute chest syndrome, such as decreased breath sounds, crackles, or wheezing. Abdominal examination may reveal tenderness in the right upper quadrant due to cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) or hepatomegaly (enlarged liver).
Neurological examination may reveal focal deficits depending on the presence of stroke or other neurological complications. Skin examination may reveal leg ulcers or evidence of prior vaso-occlusive crises.[8]
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Sickle cell Disease
Hematology in Sickle Cell Anemia
- Anemia – moderately severe
- WBC – slightly elevated
- Platelets – elevated
- Peripheral smear – Anisopoikilocytosis There are sickle cells, target cells and ovalocytosis. Also polychromatophilia with few stippled RBCs. [2]
Differential Diagnosis
Diffrential Diagnosis
The differential diagnosis of sickle cell disease encompasses several conditions that may present with similar clinical features, particularly in individuals of African, Mediterranean, or Middle Eastern descent. These include:
- Other Hemoglobinopathies: Other inherited disorders affecting hemoglobin, such as hemoglobin C disease, hemoglobin SC disease, and various thalassemias, may mimic sickle cell disease in their presentation.
- Acute Leukemia: Certain types of acute leukemia can cause anemia, bone pain, and fatigue, mimicking sickle cell crisis.
- Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: This condition involves the destruction of red blood cells by the immune system and can manifest with anemia, jaundice, and splenomegaly.
- Infectious Diseases: Some infections, particularly malaria and osteomyelitis, can trigger painful crises in individuals with sickle cell disease, making it crucial to differentiate between infection-related complications and the primary disease process.
Accurate diagnosis relies on a comprehensive approach that includes a detailed clinical history, physical examination, laboratory testing (including hemoglobin electrophoresis), and imaging studies. Early recognition and differentiation from other conditions are vital for initiating appropriate management and preventing serious complications.[9]
Complications
Complications of Sickle cell Disease
- Extreme hypoxia vaso-occlusive syndromes [2]
- Tissue infarction, or sequestration of sickled RBCs in various organs.
- Dehydration
- Exposure to low temperatures
- Hand-foot syndrome
- cerebral or pulmonary infarction
- Parvovirus B19 infection
- Splenic enlargement
- Profound hypoxemia
- Proliferative retinopathy due to retinal Ven occlusion. [2]
Investigations
Investigation of Sickle cell Disease
- Sickling test – Sickling is induced by adding reducing agent like 2% sodium metabisulphite to blood.
- Hb electrophoresis can be performed on cellulose acetate membrane or starch agarose. HbS is a slow moving Hb as compared to HbA and HbF. In HbS, HbS constitutes 70-90% of total Hb but HbA is nil. This differentiates homozygous (SS) from heterozygous state (SA), since the latter demonstrates two bands of HbS and HbA.
- HbF estimation since HbF is 10-30% in homozygous state and is helpful in assessing course of the disease.
- High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) gives exact amount of HibA, HbS, HbF and HbA2.
- Globin chain analysis may be required to assess the genetic basis of disease and differentiate it from various heterozygote states.
- HbS solubility is based on the fact that sickle Hb is insoluble in deoxygenated state. [2]
Treatment
Treatment of Sickle cell Disease
Between crises – Patient should be given folic acid regularly, and infection treated early with antibiotics.
Hydroxyurea helps by –
- Reducing incidence of sickling crises.
- Increase in HbF levels in RBCs which can carry more O2 and reduce tissue hypoxia.
- Lowering of blood viscosity thereby reducing occurrence of veno-occlusive crises [2]
- During crises – Rest, analgesics, hydration, correction of acidosis, plasma volume expander and oxygen.
- Blood transfusions – if PCV fails dangerously, cerebrovascular symptoms in early childhood, recurrent pulmonary thrombotic episodes, and to suppress the sickling process, e.g. to permit major surgery, during pregnancy or to ‘break’ a cycle of painful crises.
- Further management – Bone marrow transplantation offers opportunity for cure.
Prevention
Prevention
Sickle Cell Disease Prevention:
"Prevention of sickle cell disease focuses on identifying carriers of the sickle cell trait through screening programs and providing genetic counseling to couples at risk of having affected children. Prenatal diagnosis can be performed in high-risk pregnancies to allow for informed decision-making."[10]
Homeopathic Treatment
Homeopathic Treatment of Sickle cell Disease
Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homeopathic medicines selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis.
which includes
- The medical history of the patient,
- Physical and mental constitution,
- Family history,
- Presenting symptoms,
- Underlying pathology,
- Possible causative factors etc.
A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions.
What Homoeopathic doctors do?
A homeopathy doctor tries to treat more than just the presenting symptoms. The focus is usually on what caused the disease condition? Why ‘this patient’ is sick ‘this way’?.
The disease diagnosis is important but in homeopathy, the cause of disease not just probed to the level of bacteria and viruses. Other factors like mental, emotional and physical stress that could predispose a person to illness also looked for. No a days, even modern medicine also considers a large number of diseases as psychosomatic. The correct homeopathy remedy tries to correct this disease predisposition.
The focus is not on curing the disease but to cure the person who is sick, to restore the health. If a disease pathology not very advanced, homeopathy remedies do give a hope for cure but even in incurable cases, the quality of life can greatly improved with homeopathic medicines.
Homeopathic Medicines for Sickle cell Disease:
The homeopathic remedies (medicines) given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the homeopathy treatment of this condition. The symptoms listed against each homeopathic remedy may not be directly related to this disease because in homeopathy general symptoms and constitutional indications also taken into account for selecting a remedy.
Medicines:
Alteris Ferinosa
- Aletris Farinosa is the best natural Homeopathic medicine for women suffering from Anemia with extreme weakness and fatigue.
- There is a marked weariness and tiredness all day in such patients.
- The energy level seems to markedly reduced and the body feels powerless.
- Frequent episodes of faintness and vertigo are common and even the face appears very pale.
- Anemia in women due to repeated abortions best treat with Homeopathic remedy Aletris Farinosa.
- Vaginal discharge due to Anemia can also correct with this Homeopathic medicine.
- Aletris Farinosa is also the ideal Homeopathic mode of treatment for women with Anemia due to abundant bleeding during periods [1]
China
- Sickle cell Disease due to extreme blood loss best treated with natural Homeopathic medicine China.
- The bleeding can the result of a traumatic injury, excessive bleeding in periods or bleeding from any part of body like throat, bowels, nose, etc.
- The person exhausted and even fainting spells occur due to extreme anemic conditions consequent to blood loss. Episodes of vertigo with marked weakness also experienced.
- The body feels cold and pallor mark.
- The face especially appears pale with sunken features.
- Homeopathic medicine China acts both as a hemorrhage controller as well as enhances the amount of blood after the bleeding episodes.
Ferrum Phos
- Ferrum Phos is the most frequently used natural Homeopathic medicine to increase the hemoglobin level.
- It can safely used among people of all age groups.
- Even during Anemia in pregnancy, Ferrum Phos is a safe Homeopathic remedy though the dosage is to properly handled by the physician during pregnancy.
- The skin appears pale in persons needing Ferrum Phos and they also experience palpitation of heart and weakness.
- The pulse rate quicken. Vertigo and headache also appear as symptoms.
- Ferrum Phos is also the best Homeopathic remedy for controlling sweat in anemic patients especially at night.
Natrum Mur
- Natural Homeopathic medicine Natrum Mur acts very efficiently to control weight loss as a result of Anemia.
- The person appears very lean and emaciated with loss of flesh.
- The headache due to Sickle cell Disease is also best treated with Natrum Mur. The headache is mainly bursting in character.
- Nausea and vomiting may accompany the pain in head.
- Natrum Mur is also the Homeopathic cure when anemic patients experience palpitations.
- Natrum Mur has a great ability to control palpitations due to decreased blood.
- Anemia due to longstanding grief is also best treated with Homeopathic remedy Natrum Mur.
- There is also a marked desire for extra salt in persons needing Natrum Mur to cure Anemia.[1]
Diet & Regimen
Diet & Regimen of Sickle cell Disease
- Don’t drink a lot of alcohol and smoke.
- Exercise regularly but not so much that you become really tired. When you exercise, drink lots of fluids.
- Drink at least eight 12-ounce glasses of water a day during warm weather.
- Reduce or avoid stress. Talk to your doctor if you’re depressed or have problems with your family or job.
- Treat any infection as soon as it occurs
- Wear warm clothes outside in cold weather and inside in air-conditioned rooms during hot weather. Also, don’t swim in cold water.
- Try to be positive about yourself.
- Tell your doctor if you think you might have a sleep problem, such as snoring or if you sometimes stop breathing during sleep
- If you have another medical condition, like diabetes, get treatment and control the condition.
- If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, get early prenatal care.
- Only travel in commercial airplanes. If you have to travel in an unpressurized aircraft, talk to your doctor about extra precautions.
Do’s and Don'ts
Do’s & Don’ts
Sickle Cell Disease Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
Stay hydrated:
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day to prevent dehydration, a major trigger for sickle cell crises.
Get regular checkups:
See your doctor for regular checkups and vaccinations to stay on top of your health and address any potential issues early.
Take medications as prescribed:
If you are prescribed medications like hydroxyurea or penicillin, take them exactly as directed by your doctor.
Manage pain effectively:
Work with your healthcare team to develop a pain management plan that addresses both acute and chronic pain.
Get enough rest:
Fatigue is a common symptom of sickle cell disease. Ensure you get enough rest and prioritize sleep.
Eat a healthy diet:
A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides essential nutrients and helps maintain overall health.
Exercise regularly:
Moderate exercise can improve blood flow and reduce the risk of complications, but consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
Avoid extreme temperatures:
Exposure to extreme heat or cold can trigger sickle cell crises. Dress appropriately for the weather and avoid sudden temperature changes.
Manage stress:
Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to promote emotional well-being and reduce the risk of crises.
Seek emotional support:
Connect with other people with sickle cell disease through support groups or online communities to share experiences and coping strategies.
Don’ts:
Don’t smoke or drink alcohol:
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can worsen complications of sickle cell disease.
Don’t overexert yourself:
Strenuous physical activity can trigger crises. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
Don’t ignore symptoms:
If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
Don’t travel to high altitudes without consulting your doctor:
Low oxygen levels at high altitudes can trigger crises.
Don’t self-medicate:
Always consult your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications or supplements.
Remember:
These are general guidelines. Always follow your doctor’s specific recommendations for managing your sickle cell disease.
Terminology
Terminology
Here are some terminologies and their meanings that are commonly used in articles about Sickle Cell Disease:
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)
: A group of inherited red blood cell disorders. People with SCD have abnormal hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S or sickle hemoglobin, in their red blood cells.
Hemoglobin:
A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
: Cells in the blood that carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs.
Sickle Cell Trait:
A condition in which a person has one sickle cell gene and one normal hemoglobin gene. People with sickle cell trait usually do not have any symptoms of SCD, but they can pass the sickle cell gene on to their children.
Sickle Cell Crisis:
A painful episode that occurs when sickled red blood cells block blood flow to tissues and organs.
Vaso-occlusive Crisis:
The most common type of sickle cell crisis, caused by sickled red blood cells blocking blood flow to tissues and organs.
Hemolytic Crisis:
A type of sickle cell crisis in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them.
Aplastic Crisis:
A type of sickle cell crisis in which the bone marrow stops producing new red blood cells.
Splenic Sequestration Crisis:
A type of sickle cell crisis in which sickled red blood cells become trapped in the spleen, causing it to enlarge.
Acute Chest Syndrome:
A serious complication of SCD that can cause chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing.
Stroke:
A blockage of blood flow to the brain that can cause paralysis, speech problems, and other neurological problems.
Hydroxyurea:
A medication that can help reduce the frequency of sickle cell crises and other complications of SCD.
Blood Transfusion:
A procedure in which blood is given to a person who has lost a lot of blood or who has a low red blood cell count.
Bone Marrow Transplant:
A procedure in which healthy bone marrow is transplanted into a person with SCD.
In homeopathic articles about Sickle Cell Disease, you might encounter some specific terminologies related to homeopathy alongside the standard medical terms. Here’s a breakdown of some common ones:
Homeopathic Terminologies and their Meanings:
Miasm:
A fundamental concept in homeopathy referring to a predisposing disease tendency or inherited susceptibility. Understanding the patient’s miasm is considered crucial for selecting the most appropriate homeopathic remedy.
Constitutional Remedy:
A remedy chosen based on the patient’s overall physical, mental, and emotional characteristics, rather than solely on the specific disease symptoms. It aims to address the underlying susceptibility and improve overall health.
Similia Similibus Curentur:
This Latin phrase translates to "like cures like" and is the core principle of homeopathy. It suggests that a substance that can cause symptoms in a healthy person can cure similar symptoms in a sick person when given in a highly diluted form.
Potentization:
The process of diluting and succussing (vigorously shaking) a homeopathic remedy to increase its therapeutic power while reducing its toxicity.
Proving:
A systematic process in homeopathy where healthy volunteers are given a substance and their symptoms are meticulously recorded to determine the substance’s potential therapeutic applications.
Repertory:
A comprehensive index of homeopathic symptoms and the remedies associated with them, used by homeopaths to select the most appropriate remedy for a patient.
Materia Medica:
A detailed compilation of homeopathic remedies and their associated symptoms, derived from provings and clinical experience.
Aggravation:
A temporary worsening of existing symptoms after taking a homeopathic remedy, often considered a positive sign indicating that the remedy is working.
Vital Force:
The concept of a dynamic energy or life force that governs the body’s self-healing capacity. Homeopathy aims to stimulate and support the vital force to restore health.
Standard Medical Terminologies:
You will also encounter the same standard medical terminologies used in conventional medical articles, such as:
- Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)
- Hemoglobin
- Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
- Sickle Cell Trait
- Sickle Cell Crisis
- Vaso-occlusive Crisis
- Hemolytic Crisis
- Aplastic Crisis
- Splenic Sequestration Crisis
- Acute Chest Syndrome
- Stroke
References
Reference:
- https://www.drhomeo.com/homeopathic-treatment/homeopathic-medicines-anemia/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sickle_cell_disease
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/
- Colah, R. B., Mukherjee, M. B., Martin, S., & Ghosh, K. (2015). Sickle cell disease in tribal populations in India. The Indian Journal of Medical Research, 141(4), 509-515.
- Piel, F. B., Steinberg, M. H., & Rees, D. C. (2017). Sickle Cell Disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 376(16), 1561-1573.
- Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition,Writer: Mayo Clinic
2019, Publication: Mayo Clinic - Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th Edition
Writers: Vinay Kumar, Abul K. Abbas, Jon C. Aster, 2021
Publication: Elsevier - Bates’ Guide to Physical Examination and History Taking, 13th Edition
Writers: Lynn S. Bickley, Peter G. Szilagyi
2022, Publication: Wolters Kluwer - Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st Edition
Writers: Robert M. Kliegman, Bonita F. Stanton, Joseph St. Geme, Nina Felice. Schor, Richard E. Behrman
2020, Publication: Elsevier. - Williams Obstetrics, 26th Edition
Writers: F. Gary Cunningham, Kenneth J. Leveno, Steven L. Bloom, Jodi S. Dashe, Barbara L. Hoffman, Brian M. Casey, Catherine Y. Spong, 2024
Publication: McGraw Hill
Also Search As
Also Search As
People can search for homeopathic articles on Sickle Cell Disease using a variety of online resources and strategies. Here are some effective approaches:
Search Engines:
- Use specific search terms: Combine keywords like "homeopathy," "Sickle Cell Disease," "treatment," "remedies," and "case studies" to narrow down your search results.
- Explore different search engines: While Google is the most popular, other search engines like DuckDuckGo or Bing might yield unique results.
- Refine your search: Use advanced search operators like quotation marks for exact phrases, the minus sign to exclude specific terms, or "site:" to search within a specific website.
Homeopathic Websites and Databases:
- Visit reputable homeopathic organizations: Explore websites of organizations like the National Center for Homeopathy or the American Institute of Homeopathy for articles, research publications, or links to relevant resources.
- Search homeopathic journals and publications: Online databases like PubMed or Google Scholar may offer access to peer-reviewed homeopathic journals that contain articles on Sickle Cell Disease.
- Consult homeopathic libraries or clinics: Local homeopathic libraries or clinics may have a collection of books, journals, or articles on various health conditions, including Sickle Cell Disease.
Social Media and Online Communities:
- Join homeopathic groups and forums: Connect with homeopathic practitioners and patients through online communities or social media groups to discuss Sickle Cell Disease and share relevant articles.
- Follow homeopathic experts: Follow homeopathic doctors, researchers, or organizations on social media platforms to stay updated on the latest research and articles related to Sickle Cell Disease.
Additional Tips:
- Be critical of sources: Evaluate the credibility and reliability of the information you find. Look for articles from reputable sources and consider the author’s expertise.
- Consult a homeopathic practitioner: A qualified homeopath can provide personalized guidance and recommend relevant articles based on your specific needs.
- Stay updated: Subscribe to newsletters or RSS feeds from homeopathic websites or journals to receive regular updates on new research and articles.
Remember that while homeopathy can offer supportive care for individuals with Sickle Cell Disease, it’s crucial to consult with conventional healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and management of this condition.
There are numerous ways to search for information about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), catering to different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common and effective approaches:
Search Engines:
- General Search: Use major search engines like Google, Bing, DuckDuckGo, etc., with keywords like "Sickle Cell Disease," "SCD symptoms," "SCD treatment," etc.
- Image Search: This can be helpful for visualizing the effects of the disease, such as the characteristic sickle-shaped red blood cells.
- Video Search: Educational videos, patient testimonials, and expert interviews can provide valuable insights.
Medical Websites and Databases:
- Reputable Health Organizations: Visit websites like the Mayo Clinic, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Medical Journals and Publications: Databases like PubMed or Google Scholar provide access to peer-reviewed research articles.
- Patient Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America offer resources, support, and information.
Social Media and Online Communities:
- Social Media Platforms: Follow relevant hashtags or accounts on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to stay updated on news and discussions.
- Online Forums and Support Groups: Connect with individuals with SCD and their families to share experiences and learn from each other.
Libraries and Educational Institutions:
- Books and Journals: Libraries provide access to medical textbooks and scientific publications.
- Educational Websites: Universities and research institutions often have dedicated web pages with information on SCD.
Healthcare Professionals:
- Consult Your Doctor: Your primary care physician or a hematologist specializing in SCD can provide personalized information and guidance.
- Attend Webinars and Conferences: Participate in online or in-person educational events related to SCD.
Additional Tips:
- Use specific search terms: Be precise in your queries to narrow down the results. For instance, instead of searching just "Sickle Cell Disease," try "Sickle Cell Disease treatment guidelines" or "Sickle Cell Disease complications."
- Vary your search terms: Use synonyms and related terms to ensure a comprehensive search.
- Filter your results: Use tools provided by search engines to filter results by date, type of content (e.g., videos, images), or region.
- Evaluate the credibility of sources: Consider the author’s expertise, the website’s reputation, and the date of publication when assessing information.
- Be aware of potential biases: Information on the internet can be influenced by various perspectives, including personal experiences, advocacy, and commercial interests.
Remember, the best approach to searching for information about Sickle Cell Disease will depend on your specific needs and goals. Combine various methods and resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of the disease and its management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Sickle cell Disease?
Genetic Sickle Cell Disorders or Sickle cell Disease are characterized by presence of HbS sickle hemoglobin which give sickle shape to RBCs in a state of reduced oxygen tension.
What are the main causes of Sickle cell Disease?
Change in the gene that tells the body to make the iron-rich compound in red blood cells called hemoglobin.
How can I support someone with Sickle Cell Disease?
- Being understanding and patient
- Helping them manage pain and fatigue
- Encouraging them to seek medical care when needed
- Providing emotional support
- Learning more about the disease
What are the symptoms of Sickle cell Disease?
- Delayed growth and development
- Enlargement of spleen after 6 months.
- Leg ulcers
- Hand-foot syndrome
- Infections
- Cardiomegaly
- Hepatomegaly
- Gall stones
- Ocular complications
Homeopathic Medicines used by Homeopathic Doctors in treatment of Sickle cell Disease?
Homoeopathic Medicine For Sickle cell Disease
- Aletris Ferinosa
- China
- Ferrum Phos
- Natrum Mur
