Dallas Emergency Care for Sickle Cell Disease
Urgent Medical Treatment When SCD Symptoms Get Bad
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a disease caused by genetic abnormalities that are present when born. The most prevalent complication of SCD is low blood oxygen levels because abnormally shaped red blood cells struggle to hold oxygen and move through blood vessels. Although sickle cell disease may often cause mild symptoms, it can cause severe, potentially life-threatening symptoms without warning, such as a stroke.
If you have been diagnosed with SCD and are experiencing these symptoms, please seek emergency medical care immediately:
- Sudden chest pain
- Fatigue
- Darkly colored urine
- Shortness of breath
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Severe joint pain
- Persistent dizziness
Advance ER has two emergency medical care clinics in Dallas that are open 24/7/365. Each is equipped with medical staff and medical treatment options for people with severe sickle cell disease symptoms. We are proud to offer no wait times at both clinics, too, so you shouldn’t wait another minute to get emergency medical care.
Please come to Advance ER at the first sign of severe SCD symptoms. You can also call (214) 494-8222 if you have any questions.
Common Types of Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is not a singular disease. There are several types of SCD, each with similar symptoms and complications.
Common types of sickle cell disease include:
- HbSS: Characterized by rigid, sickle-shaped red blood cells; also called sickle cell anemia.
- HbSC: Milder form of HbSS in which the hemoglobin abnormality is only inherited from one parent.
- HbS beta thalassemia: Combination of abnormal hemoglobin structure that can cause acute or mild SCD symptoms.
Your primary care provider can tell you more about the specific type of sickle cell disease you have. Advance ER can offer emergency medical treatment options, no matter what type of SCD has caused your symptoms.
When Emergency Care May Be Needed
You should seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the severe sickle cell disease symptoms mentioned above. Chest pain, shortness of breath, and signs of a stroke are often considered the most dangerous sudden symptoms and must not be ignored.
Remember FAST for strokes:
- F for Face: Smile in the mirror. If one side does not react or looks weak, then it could be a stroke.
- A for Arms: Try to raise both arms above your head. If one arm is weak or won’t move, then it could be a stroke.
- S for Speech: Say something clearly and concisely, such as “I can speak articulately.” If your words are slurred or hard to understand, then it could be a stroke.
- T for Time: If you see any of the three warning signs above, call 911 or have someone take you to Advance ER immediately.
How Can You Treat Sickle Cell Anemia?
Currently, there’s no cure for sickle cell anemia, but our board-certified physicians will work closely with you and develop a treatment plan to relieve and manage your pain, as well as prevent harmful complications.
Our therapies may include:
- Pre-Health Screening Examinations
- Pain Management Strategies
- Immunization & Lab Testing
- Education on Healthier Lifestyle Habits
Sickle Cell Disease Complications
Untreated or severe cases of sickle cell disease can result in serious complications. It is best to talk to your doctor about how to reduce the risk of SCD complications. If severe symptoms show suddenly, then rapid treatment can also help reduce the risk of permanent complications occurring.
Permanent or long-lasting SCD complications can include:
- Vision loss
- Higher risk of strokes
- Severe anemia (low red blood cell count)
When to Seek Help from Advance ER
Continue to follow the guidelines set forth by the CDC about hand washing and social distancing. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, get in touch with one of our specialists as soon as possible:
- Fever greater than 101°F
- Sudden lung and neurologic symptoms
- Weak limbs and muscles
- Joint swelling and stomach pain
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Providing Relief & Care for Sickle Cell Patients During COVID-19
Sickle cell patients are at a much higher risk for contracting COVID-19 than the general population. It’s important to find a provider who can effectively treat and manage your symptoms both at-home and when you come into the emergency room. At Advance ER, we offer a safe, comfortable environment for patients struggling with sickle cell anemia.
Get Emergency Treatment When You Need It – Call Now
Please seek emergency medical care for severe symptoms of sickle cell disease. Urgent medical attention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent them from getting worse. Advance ER is always available to provide emergency care for SCD patients in Dallas thanks to our 24/7 availability with no wait times. We have two emergency care centers in the Dallas area for your convenience.
For more information about how we can treat SCD, call (214) 494-8222.
Can Sickle Cell Disease Be Cured?
Once you are stabilized and safe from the worst symptoms of severe sickle cell disease, it may be necessary to transfer to a local hospital for monitoring. We recommend that you speak with your primary care provider about potential sickle cell disease cures. SCD is incurable in many patients, but some may benefit from bone marrow transplants. A bone marrow transplant can have severe side effects, so the decision to pursue such a treatment must be made with your doctor.
