Sickle Cell Trait Complications

Complications of sickle cell trait (carriers) are serious and can result in life-threatening health problems. Sickle cell affects mostly descendants of people from Africa, South or Central America, and Mediterranean countries. In the United States, it is more prevalent among African Americans. Uncomplicated sickle cell trait carriers experience little to no distressing complications.

Defining Sickle Cell Trait

Sickle cell trait manifests in carriers who inherit one normal hemoglobin (A) from one parent and one abnormal hemoglobin sickle formation (S) from the other parent, producing hemoglobin AS, which is sickle cell trait. Blood tests are now performed on infants just after birth for early detection. Carriers of the trait display either complicated or uncomplicated symptoms. Sickle cell trait is not usually regarded as a disease because many carriers experience mild, improperly diagnosed symptoms or none at all. Symptoms include urinary tract infection, exertional heat illness, and acute pain in the joints.

Urinary Tract Infections and Sickle Cell Trait

Carriers should know the symptoms and onset of a urinary tract infection. Cloudiness or bloody traces in urine, discomfort, and feelings of urgency to urinate with little release are signs to watch for. Women with sickle cell trait experience higher numbers of urinary tract infections compared to racially matched subjects who are not carriers.

Fatal Exertional Heat Illness

Unexpected exercise-related death (ERD) due to exertional heat illness from physical activity is common in sickle cell carriers performing physical activities during hot times of the day, in cities of high elevation, or in areas with little oxygen. Exercise for carriers is best performed outside during cool times of the day such as early mornings or evenings. Indoor activities are recommended during hot summer days or extremely cold winter days. ERD numbers are highest among African-American males and females.

Enlarged or Hemorrhaging Spleen

When sickle cell hemoglobin S carriers are exposed to high altitudes, they may experience complications in the spleen. Symptoms such as severe abdominal pain in the upper left area of the abdomen, nausea, and vomiting are the most common signs of the onset of carrier-related problems in the spleen. Immediate medical intervention is necessary.

Complications to the Lungs

Risks to carriers of sickle cell trait experiencing lung complications such as pulmonary embolism aren't high, but they do exist. Communicate signs of mucus buildup, uncontrollable coughing, or chest discomfort to your physician immediately. With proper monitoring and precaution, sickle cell carriers can lead normal lives.

References

• Screening information for newborns
• Women and sickle cell anemia

Resources

• Information on sickle cell trait