How does sickle-cell disease impact the circulatory system?

Sickle cell disease impacts the circulatory system in several ways:

1. Abnormal Hemoglobin: Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the gene that tells your body to make hemoglobin — the red, iron-rich compound that gives blood its red color. People with sickle cell disease have abnormal hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort red blood cells into a sickle, or crescent, shape.

2. Blockage of Blood Vessels: The sickle-shaped cells are not flexible and can stick to the walls of the blood vessels, causing a blockage that slows or stops the flow of blood. When this happens, oxygen can't reach nearby tissues.

3. Pain and Organ Damage: The lack of blood flow can cause pain and organ damage. It can also increase the risk for infection.

4. Anemia: Sickle cells break apart easily and die, leaving you without enough red blood cells. Red blood cells usually live for about 120 days before they need to be replaced. But sickle cells usually die in 10 to 20 days, leaving a shortage of red blood cells (anemia).

5. Delayed Growth: Without enough red blood cells, your body can't get the oxygen it needs to grow and stay healthy. As a result, children with sickle cell disease may grow more slowly and puberty may be delayed.

6. Vision Problems: Tiny blood vessels that supply your eyes may become plugged with sickle cells. This can damage the retina — the portion of the eye that processes visual images, leading to vision problems.