Diseases of the Blood

Anemia
Sickle Cell Disease

Anemia

This is a condition characterized by the reduced production of red blood cells in the body. The insufficient numbers of red blood cells, which in turn do not deliver enough oxygen to the body, not only leave the individual feeling sluggish and drowsy, but also wreak havoc on numerous body functions. Typically, this individual may experience generalized weakness of the body, dizziness, headaches, shortness of breath and fever. The individual may experience disruption in various other systems of the body (gastrointestinal, heart, lungs, immune system, etc.) Accommodations will vary according to the body system that is affected.

Sickle Cell Disease

This is a condition characterized by the unique shape of the red blood cells. With the sickle shape comes the reduced ability of blood to flow unhindered through blood vessels. The sickle shaped cells get hung up/caught and create restrictions in blood flow, even damaging various systems of the body. At this point, medicine is only able to ease the painful symptoms inherent in this disease. The individual with sickle cell disease may experience a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Pain, arthritis, blood in the urine, a large urine volume, fatigability and difficult breathing upon physical exertion are symptoms which may occur due to the unpredictability of this condition, accommodations will vary.