What does the sickle cell trait do to you?

A person with sickle cell trait inherits one gene to make normal hemoglobin (A) and another gene to make some sickle cell hemoglobin (S). Hemoglobin is the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen to different parts of the body. Sickle cell trait (AS) usually does not cause any health problems.

Is sickle cell trait good?

Generally, people with sickle cell trait are able to lead normal, healthy and happy lives. Most people don’t experience the pain crises and other issues more commonly associated with sickle cell disease. However, there are specific health problems to watch out for, even though they’re not common.

Does sickle cell trait make you high risk?

It had long been thought that having sickle cell trait was a largely benign condition, and for many, it may be. But new research suggests that some people with the trait are more likely to suffer from higher rates of chronic kidney disease, kidney cancer, complications in pregnancy, and exercise-related deaths.

Can sickle cell trait make you tired?

Fatigue is a common symptom associated with sickle cell disease. Due to the smaller size of our red blood cells, we cannot carry as much oxygen as those with healthier red blood cells. This leads to a lack of oxygen in our bodies and, ultimately, fatigue.

Does sickle cell trait weaken your immune system?

Sickle cell disease affects the spleen, which helps with the immune system. As a result, those with SCD have weakened immune systems and are more likely to get sick.

What is the difference between sickle cell anemia and sickle cell trait?

What is the difference between sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease? People with sickle cell trait carry only one copy of the altered hemoglobin gene and rarely have any clinical symptoms related to the disease. In contrast, people with sickle cell disease carry two copies of the altered hemoglobin gene.

Does cold weather affect sickle cell trait?

Stay warm in cold weather Exposure to cold air, wind, and water may cause a painful event by triggering red blood cell sickling in exposed areas of the body.