Reliable Medical World

SICKLE CELL DISEASE AND EXERCISE
Regular exercise is healthy for everyone, including people with sickle cell disease (SCD). However, people with SCD should keep exercises mild and make sure to take breaks. Strenuous activities can trigger pain crises and other complications of SCD.

People with sickle cell trait do not have sickled red blood cells and are generally healthy. However, intense exercise can turn sickle cell trait into a disease with severe complications. Athletes with sickle cell trait should be careful to stay hydrated, take breaks, and stay cool during strenuous activities.

How much exercise is safe for people with sickle cell disease?

Intense exercise can trigger complications of SCD because it increases blood flow. Some doctors have advised some people to avoid exercise altogether. However, mild exercise is generally safe and helpful for people with SCD.1

People with SCD usually have fewer blood vessels in their muscle tissue, which prevents oxygen delivery. Moderate exercise can help people with SCD form new blood vessels in the muscle. This helps improve blood and oxygen delivery.2

In people with SCD, mild exercise also improves:1,2

Muscle function

Overall physical ability

Sleep quality

Concentration

Social interactions

To be continued..