What Is Acute Chest Syndrome?

By james

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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The importance of being able to get the oxygen that we need cannot be stressed enough. Our body’s cells rely on oxygen in order to generate the energy that they need. If they did not have this oxygen, they could create no energy, and they would simply die. Even a temporary shortage of oxygen can result in the death of some of our cells.

Acute chest syndrome is a condition that is closely associated with sickle cell disease, but can also be caused by some other medical conditions. The syndrome is very dangerous and puts the patient’s life at immediate risk, so it is essential to get them to an emergency room as soon as possible.

1. Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is a condition where the patient’s red blood cells develop abnormally. The cells have a characteristic sickle shape and will die sooner and faster than usual. This can result in anemia as the patient’s blood is unable to transport sufficient oxygen. The symptoms are not usually present in newborns but will begin to show around 6 months old.

The symptoms of sickle cell disease can vary considerably in severity. Most people with the condition will live quite normal lives, but serious complications can arise in some cases. One example of such a complication is acute chest syndrome.