Recognizing the warning signs and symptoms of a sickle cell crisis

A sickle cell crisis isn’t a polite guest, and it often arrives unannounced.

Over the years, I’ve learned that my crises either come on suddenly or build gradually, with subtle clues or a red alert. Recognizing these warning signs of a sickle cell pain crisis early is the first step in active self-management. This allows me to intervene before the situation escalates into a medical emergency.

When I was younger, one of my most consistent warning signs was deepening jaundice, which is common in people with sickle cell disease. It indicates a frequent breakdown of red blood cells, warning me that a vaso-occlusive crisis is lurking. When I was a child, my mum and elder sister were always checking my eyes for jaundice; if it was present, they would ensure I took all necessary precautions to prevent a crisis. However, my jaundice decreased over time and is no longer an effective warning sign for me.

In adulthood, fatigue has become my most frequent sign of a crisis. I do not take it lightly. Whenever I feel unusually tired, I make a conscious decision to slow down and rest. Ignoring it has always led to hospital admissions or severe pain episodes. Now, I treat fatigue as my body’s way of asking me to stop and seek immediate care.

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Another common signal I experience is generalized mild body pain, or myalgia. It may start subtly, like with an ache that is easy to dismiss, but I have learned not to ignore it. Myalgia tells me my body is overstressed. When I feel this kind of pain, I know I must rest, hydrate, and take my medications as prescribed. Acting early can prevent the pain from progressing into a full-blown crisis.

Illness is another major pointer that a crisis is imminent for me. Any form of infection, whether it’s malaria or a minor respiratory illness, can easily precipitate a crisis if I don’t treat it promptly. Sickle cell warriors with comorbidities must manage other conditions effectively so they’re not a constant trigger for crises. I’ve learned to take my health seriously and seek appropriate care early. For me, delaying treatment almost always leads to an acute sickle cell crisis.

I’ve also recognized the dangers of “daring” a sickle cell crisis with triggers such as stress, physical exertion, dehydration, emotional strain, and inadequate sleep. Whenever I push my limits — staying awake for 24 hours or more, walking excessive distances, or overworking myself — I often pay the price with a severe crisis. Now, I prioritize balance and self-awareness over endurance.

Some people may experience other warning signs, such as numbness, which is caused by reduced blood flow (ischemia) to the nerves. This symptom should never be ignored, as it can signal an impending crisis.

Furthermore, it is highly important to acknowledge individual idiosyncrasies. Each person living with sickle cell disease can have unique patterns and warning signs. Every patient should learn to study their body and identify their own signals. Self-awareness and knowing one’s limitations are powerful tools in managing sickle cell disease.

That said, one important truth remains: Sometimes there are no warning signs at all. Many warriors, myself included, have experienced crises that occur without any prior indication. This unpredictability is part of the condition, and it reminds us to remain cautious, even when we feel well.

Understanding my warning signs has made a significant difference in my journey. It allows me to act early and potentially prevent crises, or at least reduce their severity. Most importantly, paying attention to these signals and responding promptly has helped me reduce the frequency of my hospitalizations and maintain better control over my health.

Note: Sickle Cell Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Sickle Cell Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues about sickle cell disease.