Chetti Jayanthi Sree, 23 from Bhadradri Kothagudem, Telangana talks to PatientsEngage about the challenges of Sickle Cell Anemia and the support of her family.
Sickle cell anemia is an inherited form of anemia — a condition in which there aren't enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen throughout the body.
Normally, the red blood cells in our body are flexible and round, moving easily through our blood vessels. In sickle cell anemia, the red blood cells become rigid and sticky and are shaped like sickles or crescent moons. These irregularly shaped cells can get stuck in small blood vessels, which can slow or block blood flow and oxygen to parts of the body.
There is no cure for most people with sickle cell anemia. But treatments can relieve pain and help prevent problems associated with the disease.
We spoke with Chetti Jayanthi Sree on the challenges of having Sickle Cell Anemia
Please tell us a bit about your current condition
At present I am fine. But I go through a transfusion once every three months.
When were you diagnosed?
I was diagnosed with this condition some 9 years back at the NIMMS Hospital in Hyderabad.
What were the early symptoms?
Severe body pains when Hb (haemoglobin level) is below 8g.
Is there a history of sickle cell anemia in your family?
No I am the first person in the family to face this problem.
What medications are you on?
Nothing….
What were some of the challenges you faced and what is your advice to patients who face similar challenges?
Drink a lot of water and take medicines regularly.
What kind of specialists do you consult and how often?
I visit the Sickle Cell Society in Hyderabad to consult specialists.
Have you had to make some changes to your lifestyle because of your condition?
Yes….I’m not able to go very far from home for a job or my studies because of my health condition.
How has your family supported you?
I have a wonderful family, by God’s grace, and they are a big support for me. I manage to lead a smooth life just because of them.
Did you see a counselor for support? Were you offered counselling by doctor?
No…
What was the hardest part of the treatment? And what kept you going?
I am in a deep financial crisis and find it difficult to fund for my treatment.
