How long does a sickle cell pain crisis last?

Episodes of pain known as sickle cell crises are one of the most common and distressing symptoms of sickle cell disease. They happen when blood vessels to part of the body become blocked. The pain can be severe and lasts for up to 7 days on average.

How painful is a sickle cell crisis?

Pain during a sickle cell crisis can happen anywhere in the body, such as the arms, legs, joints, back, or chest. It can come on suddenly, and be mild or severe. The pain can last for a few hours, a few days, or sometimes longer.

What is the best painkiller for sickle cell crisis?

Diclofenac and ibuprofen are commonly used NSAIDs in sickle cell anemia patients. If the pain persists, an opioid can be added. Moderate-to-severe pain usually is treated with opioids. For moderate pain, a weaker opioid such as codeine may be sufficient.

What to do when you have a sickle cell crisis?

To help ease the pain, you can: Try relaxation techniques and distraction. Apply warm compresses where it hurts (never use ice or cold packs). Drink lots of water and other non-caffeinated beverages. Take over-the-counter pain medicines, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

What kind of pain medication can I take for sickle cell disease?

Moderate-to-severe pain usually is treated with opioids. For moderate pain, a weaker opioid such as codeine may be sufficient. For severe pain, a stronger opioid such as morphine, or equivalent opioid such as levorphanol, methadone, oxymorphone, or fentanyl may be used.

When do people with sickle cell disease have pain?

People with sickle cell disease sometimes have pain. When this happens, it is called a sickle cell crisis, or pain crisis.

Are there any treatments for sickle cell anemia?

One drug, called hydroxyurea, may keep pain episodes from happening as often for children and adults who take it every day. Scientists are also studying another drug, L-glutamine, to see if it can help people have shorter or fewer hospital visits for sickle cell pain.

What are treatments for sickle cell disease?

Drug treatments for sickle cell disease include: Antibiotics, usually penicillin, are commonly given to infants and young children, as well as adults, to help prevent infections. Pain relief medication ranging from nonprescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to opiods are given to control pain.

What are the signs of sickle cell crisis?

The most common sign of sickle cell crisis is pain that might be dull, stabbing, throbbing, or sharp.

What is the treatment for sickle cell crisis?

For sickle cell crisis, when the severity of the episode is assessable, self-treatment at home with bed rest, oral analgesia, and hydration is possible.