Managing your child's sickle cell disease this winter
Keeping warm, healthy, and crisis-free all winter long
A blog by Dr Anjum, Consultant Paediatrician and lead Haematologist at Newham Hospital
As the winter season approaches, it is important for families and caregivers of children living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) to prepare thoughtfully and proactively.
What is Sickle Cell Disease?
SCD is a lifelong, inherited blood disorder caused by a faulty gene affecting the red blood cells. Instead of having the usual round, flexible shape, the red blood cells become sickle-shaped, fragile, and prone to breaking down (hemolysis). This leads to chronic anemia, painful vaso-occlusive crises, and over time can result in damage to multiple organs.
What are the areas that need to be managed?
SCD is not just a medical problem, but a comprehensive health challenge. Families often need to manage physical, emotional, educational, social, and financial aspects of care. Parents play a vital role, and their coping strategies - whether through support groups, open communication, or careful planning - make a real difference in the quality of life of children with SCD.
With the colder months ahead, the risk of complications increases. Cold weather, infections, and dehydration can all trigger sickle crises.
What can caregivers or families do to support their young loved ones?
- Keep them warm with good clothing: Protect against sudden drops in temperature to avoid sickling episodes, extra layers indoors if needed, comfort and warmth take priority.
- Hydration is just as important in the winter: Encourage regular fluid intake, even when children may not feel thirsty. Dehydration can thicken the blood and trigger crises, making sure children have a refillable water bottle at school and avoid caffinated drinks.
- Prevent infections and protect against triggers: Every year, I emphasize the importance of getting the flu vaccination. This is strongly recommended to reduce the risk of influenza, which can be dangerous for people with SCD. Book your flu vaccine via the NHS App or NHS website. Practice good hand hygiene, avoid exposure to sick contacts, and seek medical advice promptly if fever develops.
- Support their Immune systems with good nutrition and sleep: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegatables, and lean protein helps the body fight off illness. Make sure your child gets 9 to 11 hours of sleep each night, as rest is a part of prevention; tired bodies are more vulnerable to crises.
- Stay consistent with medications: Keep pain medicines available at home, know your child's early signs of a crises. Also get regular checkups and maintain follow-ups with hematology and primary care providers to monitor their health status.
- Work with their school: Teachers play an important role, so you can provide them with a written Sickle Cell Care Plan that outlines what to do when your child experiences pain, fatigue, or fever.
By preparing early and taking preventive measures, families can help reduce the likelihood of crises during the winter season and keep their loved ones healthier and safer.
SCD remains a chronic, progressive condition, but with awareness, medical care, and strong family support, individuals can live meaningful lives. Let us work together to spread awareness and encourage families to stay vigilant this winter.
More information
Book your flu vaccine via the NHS App or NHS website, or by calling 119 for free, with appointments running until 20th of December. Flu vaccines are also available through many local GP practices and pharmacies.
Read more:
- Information about sickle cell disease
- Keeping well this winter