10 Sickle Cell Anemia Symptoms
Symptom #5: Delayed Growth
Since sickle cell disease is a type of anemia, this means that the body has a decreased amount of red blood cells that function to carry and supply oxygen to parts of the body. The sickle-shaped cells cause the cells to become stiff and increases the likelihood of them being stuck in the blood vessels or destroyed by the spleen.
Since it is a genetic disorder that is hereditary, it is a chronic condition that is present since birth. Chronic and severe anemia can result in tiredness, pallor, delayed healing, and growth retardation. This can be seen in children with sickle cell anemia, who can be underweight, of short stature, and experience delayed sexual maturation (late puberty).
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