Search by keyword or browse our list of services.
Find a provider by specialty, location, or availability.
Available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
See current studies testing new drugs, devices, and equipment to find better ways to treat and help patients.
For life-threatening medical emergencies, call 911 without delay. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988 for free and confidential crisis support.
Search by specialty and location.
Receive the highest level of care from the region's leading providers.
Find a lab or imaging facility close to you.
Search for a retail pharmacy in your area.
Find an outpatient infusion center.
Visit us to pay bills, ask billing questions, or request billing records.
MyChart
Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder in which the body produces an abnormal type of the oxygen-carrying substance hemoglobin in the red blood cells. Normal hemoglobin is called hemoglobin A, but people with sickle cell disease have only hemoglobin S, which turns normal, round red blood cells into abnormally curved (sickle) shapes.
Sickle-shaped blood cells are destroyed by the body faster than normal blood cells, which can result in an inadequate oxygen supply to the body (anemia). Most people with sickle cell disease have at least mild symptoms of chronic anemia, including:
Sickle-shaped blood cells are also more likely to get stuck in and block small blood vessels throughout the body. Reduced blood flow caused by blocked blood vessels can damage certain organs, muscles, and bones. This may cause repeated episodes of pain (called sickle cell crises) that may last from hours to days. The pain most often occurs in the bones of the spine, arms and legs, the chest, and the abdomen.
People who have sickle cell disease need special medical care throughout their lives to treat the variety of problems that can be caused by the illness.
Current as of: April 11, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
To learn more, visit Healthwise.org
© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
People are at the heart of great health care. That's why we are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care tailored to the communities we serve.
Together with our community partners and patients, we're building a stronger, healthier future for all Idahoans.
