As you go about your day, you likely don’t think about the inner workings of your body. In the background of your life, millions of cells, neurons and systems work seamlessly together to sustain all you do, from taking a breath to healing a wound. But sometimes, your body may not work the way it was designed.
Physical pain is one of your body's built-in alarm systems to alert you that something is wrong. And sometimes, that pain can be severe and occur at a moment's notice. This is true for those who have sickle cell anemia, also called sickle cell disease.
Keep reading to learn more about this condition, including what it is, its triggers, pain management treatments and home remedies to find the relief you deserve.
Breaking Down Sickle Cell Anemia
Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary blood disorder affecting the shape of red blood cells. These cells carry an important protein called hemoglobin, which contains oxygen. The proteins found inside our red blood cells are distributed throughout our bodies to support proper function. While these cells are normally disc-shaped, they can become sickle- or crescent-shaped because of a gene mutation. When this happens, the misshapen cells begin to block the flow of normal ones, which can lead to severe pain and organ problems.
Why Does Sickle Cell Disease Cause Pain?
Those with sickle cell anemia often experience something known as a sickle cell pain crisis. Essentially, this is an episode of intense pain caused by the blockage of red blood cells in the body, which leads to a lack of oxygen and tissue damage. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, many claim that sickle cell pain feels like a throbbing, stabbing or sharp moment of pain in the joints, arms or legs. Pain may also occur in the stomach and chest.
What Triggers Sickle Cell Pain Crises?
Unfortunately, there’s no way of telling how long the pain will last. Some report sickle cell pain lasting from a few minutes to several days. But there are known triggers for these pain crises, including:
- Dehydration
- High altitudes
- Infections
- Intense physical activity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking and vaping
- Stress
- Vitamin deficiencies
While sickle cell pain crises can come on abruptly, this list of triggers is good to remember and may even prevent the frequency of your pain.
Pain Management Treatments for Sickle Cell Disease
Relieving pain from sickle cell anemia can feel overwhelming, but you have options. For minor pain crises, most over-the-counter pain relievers should provide the relief you’re longing for. Common medications to treat pain include acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium.
For more severe episodes, you may need stronger opioid medications like morphine, oxycodone, diamorphine or fentanyl. It’s important to know that these medications can only be given at the hospital through an IV or prescribed by your doctor. If you experience an intense pain crisis, visit your nearest ER.
Another way to manage your pain is to practice preventive measures. To help prevent sickle cell crises, we recommend you avoid smoking, stay hydrated, wash your hands frequently and limit alcohol consumption.
How to Manage Sickle Cell Pain at Home
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends various home remedies for sickle cell pain, including:
- Acupuncture
- Getting a massage
- Physical therapy
- Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain medicine (like ibuprofen)
- Trying yoga
- Using a heating pad
The best way to manage your pain is to work with your primary care provider to create a treatment plan tailored to you.
Helping You Navigate Your Health Journey
We know managing your sickle cell anemia pain can be challenging, but you aren’t alone. At AdventHealth, our expert team of hematologists is here to provide the medical expertise you deserve. Visit us here to find a hematologist near you or find a provider specializing in sickle cell anemia. You deserve to feel your best.
