As a health professional and sickle cell patient, I’m constantly driven to create awareness about the disease. My motivation transcends professional duty; it’s a personal quest to make a difference. September may be National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, but for me, every month is an opportunity to educate…
I once thought I might be one of the few people living with sickle cell disease who do not experience mood swings. However, upon deeper self-reflection, I realized that I might very well be the queen of them. Mood swings are a common complication of sickle cell disease,…
I once believed that the stigma surrounding sickle cell disease only existed outside of the sickle cell community, perpetrated by those who don’t live with the condition. However, my experiences interacting with fellow patients and joining sickle cell support groups have revealed a harsh reality: Stigma,…
Managing sickle cell pain can be extremely challenging. While medical interventions remain the mainstay of treatment, nonmedical strategies like distraction can sometimes be effective in relieving mild to moderate pain. Distractions are therapeutic strategies, activities, or interventions that divert attention away from pain and discomfort, providing relief during…
As I reflect on my life’s journey with sickle cell disease, I’ve concluded that one of the most important factors in managing it is having a sound support system. A great support system has made the journey easier and the load lighter for me, alleviating some of my challenges.
Here in Nigeria, growing into adulthood with sickle cell disease used to be considered an impossibility. Sadly, people like me who were living with sickle cell disease were labeled as “abiku,” which means “born to die soon.” I, too, was told by many that I wouldn’t survive beyond…
Pica is a disorder characterized by a persistent craving and consumption of nonnutritive or nonfood substances, such as soap, tissue, chalk, ice, paper, sand, or charcoal. This behavior can be harmful and even poisonous, posing significant health risks. According to an article published in 2020 in the journal JBI…
Cardiomegaly, or having an enlarged heart, is a significant manifestation and a direct complication of sickle cell disease. It’s a common sign of cardiovascular issues and is more prevalent in adult patients. Sickle cell disease itself is a chronic state of anemic that occurs as a result…
Sickle cell disease can be challenging to manage at any stage of life, but perhaps especially so for students with moderate to severe disease pursuing higher education. The stress of school can often trigger sickle cell crises, making it crucial for patients to prioritize their health when furthering…
Sickle cell disease doesn’t only affect people physically; it can also result in social stigma, which occurs in schools, workplaces, healthcare settings, and even within families. At the core of sickle cell stigma lies the term “sickler.” While the word can be used simply to refer to people…
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