Hi Sickle cell anaemia disease usually requires lifelong treatment. Children and adults with sickle cell disease will be supported by a team of different healthcare professionals working together in a specialist sickle cell centre. Your care team will help you learn more about the condition and work with you to come up with an individual care plan that takes into account all your needs and health concerns The main thing you can do to reduce your chances of experiencing a painful episode (sickle cell crisis) is to try avoiding possible triggers. This may mean you need to: drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration wear appropriate clothing to stop you getting cold avoid sudden temperature changes, such as swimming in cold water If you continue to experience episodes of pain, a medication called hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea) may be recommended. This is usually taken as a capsule once a day. Hydroxycarbamide can lower the amount of other blood cells, such as white blood cells and platelets (clotting cells), so regular blood tests will usually be recommended to monitor your health. If you experience a sickle cell crisis, you can usually manage it at home. The following can help: take over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (aspirin should not be given to children under 16) – if the pain is more severe, your GP may prescribe stronger painkillers ensure you have plenty to drink use a warm towel or a heated pad to gently massage the affected body part – many pharmacies sell pads that can be used for this purpose try suitable distractions to take your mind off the pain– for example, children might like to read a story, watch a film or play their favourite computer game Anaemia often causes few symptoms and may not require specific treatment. However, dietary supplements such as folic acid (which helps stimulate the production of red blood cells) may sometimes be required to help improve anaemia if your child has a restricted diet, such as a vegetarian or vegan diet. Anaemia caused by sickle cell disease isn t the same as the more common iron deficiency anaemia. Don t take iron supplements to treat it without seeking medical advice as they could be dangerous. If anaemia is particularly severe or persistent, treatment with blood transfusions or hydroxycarbamide may be necessary. Regards DR DE