Should a Child with Sickle Cell Disease See a Pediatrician or a Hematologist? Do They Need to Go to the Hospital for Treatment? How Long Will It Take to Improve?

Question

Should a child with sickle cell disease see a pediatrician or a hematologist? Do they need to go to the hospital for treatment? How long will it take for the condition to improve?

Answer

Sickle cell disease is a clinical condition associated with a deficiency in glucose-6-phosphatase, which is prone to cause hemolysis, especially when consuming foods like beans. Therefore, if a child has sickle cell disease, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician at the hospital. Additionally, if a child often catches colds, it may indicate poor immune system conditions, so it’s important to enhance nutrition and avoid catching colds during treatment. For sickle cell disease, it is crucial to avoid contact with beans or foods containing beans. As for the duration of treatment, it varies from person to person, and it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. The doctor will then tailor an appropriate treatment plan for the child based on their specific condition.