Skeletal

The bones can also be affected by sickle cell disease. Dactylitis is a blockage of vessels in the small bones of the hand and feet which causes severe pain. The fingers and toes can also become swollen and resemble “sausages.” This is often seen in children.

• Treatment/Prevention: You can treat these episodes through pain medicines such as ibuprofen. Warming the affected fingers and toes can also help resolve the pain. It is also important to keep hydrated during these episodes.

Chronic anemia causes a rapid growth of bone marrow and will increase the risk of developing vitamin D deficiency and osteoporosis.

• Treatment/Prevention:These conditions can be managed through supplements if caught early. You should have Vitamin D levels checked yearly and have a imaging study of your bone density done every 3 years

Avascular necrosis is a destruction of bone that can occur due to lack of blood supply. This is seen more often in individuals with sickle cell disease as there is an increased risk of getting blockages in the small vessels that supply the joints. It is often seen in weight-bearing joints such as the femur.

• Some signs of avascular necrosis include:
  • Pain in the joint that may increase over time
  • Pain that occurs even at rest
  • Limited range of motion
  • Groin pain, if the hip joint is affected.
  • Difficulty with overhead movement, if the shoulder is affected