Long-term conditions · 4 min read · Updated October 2026
Sickle cell disease: daily care and crisis prevention
Nigeria has more people with sickle cell disease than any other country. Good routine care prevents most crises.
Clinician review pending This article is awaiting sign-off by a doctor.
Sickle cell disease is inherited. Red blood cells become stiff and crescent-shaped, blocking small blood vessels and causing pain, anaemia and organ damage. Nigeria alone has around 150,000 babies born with it each year. With modern care, most people live full adult lives.
Daily care
Take folic acid daily. Children should take penicillin prophylaxis as prescribed, usually until at least age five, and have all routine vaccines plus pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines. Drink plenty of water, especially in hot weather and during exercise. Avoid extreme cold, dehydration and exhaustion. In malaria areas, take malaria prevention as advised and sleep under a net; malaria is especially dangerous in sickle cell disease.
Hydroxyurea
Hydroxyurea is a daily tablet that reduces the number of pain crises and the need for blood transfusions, and lengthens life. It is safe for children and adults when monitored. If you have frequent crises and are not on it, ask your doctor.
Managing a pain crisis at home
Mild pain: rest, warm compresses, plenty of fluids, and paracetamol or ibuprofen as advised. If pain is not controlled within a few hours, or you need stronger medicine, go to a hospital. Do not delay.
Go to a hospital now if
Fever of 38°C or higher (infections are life-threatening in sickle cell disease); chest pain, cough or difficulty breathing (possible acute chest syndrome); sudden weakness, trouble speaking or severe headache (possible stroke); a very swollen, painful abdomen; sudden pallor and extreme tiredness; or an erection lasting more than two hours.
How Telafia can help
Routine reviews, hydroxyurea monitoring plans, prescription renewals, and advice during mild pain can be done remotely, with blood tests at a local lab. Know your nearest hospital with sickle cell experience before you need it.
Emergency numbers
767 works in Lagos State; 112 is the national number. Numbers change: please check locally. If a number does not connect, go straight to the nearest hospital.
Related doctors
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