Sickle Cell Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Sickle Cell Disease?
A hematologist, a doctor who specializes in blood disorders, usually treats sickle cell disease. Many people also see a primary care doctor for everyday care. Children are often treated by a pediatric hematologist. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited blood disorders. In people with this condition, the body makes an unusual form of hemoglobin, the protein inside red blood cells that carries oxygen. Because of this, some red blood cells become stiff and shaped like a crescent or a farm tool called a sickle. Sickle-shaped cells can get stuck, block blood flow, and break down faster than normal cells.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually start in early childhood and can range from mild to severe. Many people have episodes of sudden pain, often called pain crises, when sickled cells block blood flow. Other common signs include tiredness, pale skin, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and frequent infections.
Causes and who gets it
Sickle cell disease is caused by a change in a gene that tells the body how to make hemoglobin. A child develops the disease only when they inherit the changed gene from both parents. In the United States, it is most common in people with ancestors from Africa, but also in those with roots in the Mediterranean, India, and Central and South America.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors diagnose sickle cell disease with a blood test that checks for the unusual form of hemoglobin. In the United States, most babies are tested shortly after birth through newborn screening.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on preventing problems and easing symptoms. Medicines can reduce pain crises, prevent infections, and lower the chance of complications. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding extreme temperatures and stress, and keeping up with vaccines also help.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have sudden or severe pain, fever, trouble breathing, chest pain, or signs of a stroke such as weakness on one side or trouble speaking. These can be signs of serious complications that need care right away.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance for visits, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either type can help manage day-to-day care, including checkups, vaccines, prescriptions, and lab work. They do not replace a hematologist; when serious issues come up, they refer the patient to a blood specialist and coordinate care.
Common questions
Can sickle cell disease be cured?
A stem cell transplant can be a lasting treatment for some people, but it is not an option for everyone and carries serious risks. Most people manage the condition with medicines and regular medical care.
Can people with sickle cell trait get the disease?
No. People with sickle cell trait carry the changed gene but usually do not have symptoms. They can pass the gene to their children, so genetic counseling can be helpful when planning a family.
How long do people with sickle cell disease live?
Life expectancy has improved a lot in recent decades because of newborn screening, vaccines, and better treatments. Many people now live into middle age and beyond.
Is sickle cell disease contagious?
No. It is an inherited condition, which means it is passed from parents to children through genes. You cannot catch it from another person.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Sickle Cell Disease
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute - Sickle Cell Disease
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
