Living with sickle cell disease

Sickle cell disease is characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells. This can cause the cells to become lodged in blood vessels -- a painful result called a sickle cell crisis.
The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these recommendations to help prevent a sickle cell crisis:
Avoid alcohol or drink only very little, and don’t smoke.
Drink at least eight glasses of water every day.
Keep illnesses and health conditions, such as a simple infection or diseases such as diabetes, treated and under control.
Avoid stress whenever possible.
Make time to exercise -- but moderate exercise only.
Don’t let yourself get too cold. Dress warmly in winter or when in air conditioning, and avoid swimming in cold water.
Talk to your doctor if you snore, or if you have sleep apnea.
(Source: HealthDay News)