Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped, which can block blood flow and reduce oxygen delivery throughout the body. This can lead to symptoms like pain crises, fatigue, frequent infections, and other complications, making daily activities sometimes challenging.
Pain crises can be managed by staying hydrated, avoiding extreme temperatures, managing stress, and resting when needed. Keep a pain management plan in place, and consider visiting the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) at the first sign of a crisis. The DHS team can provide support and medication if required.
Common triggers include dehydration, stress, cold weather, and intense physical activity. To reduce your risk, drink plenty of water, dress warmly in cooler weather or air-conditioned spaces, take breaks during study sessions, and manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
It’s a good idea to inform close friends and, if necessary, lecturers about your condition, especially if it might affect your attendance or academic performance. You don’t have to go into detail, but letting key people know can make it easier to seek help when needed and to receive support during painful episodes or crises.
First, try to find a quiet place to rest and use any prescribed pain medication. If symptoms don’t improve or become severe, head to the DHS for immediate medical assistance. Let a friend know or ask for help in getting there.
Staying hydrated is essential, as dehydration can increase the risk of crises. Carry a water bottle and drink frequently throughout the day. Eating balanced can help with energy and reduce anemia-related fatigue. Talk to a healthcare provider for specific dietary advice.
Many people with SCD can safely enjoy sports, but it’s essential to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. Warm up before activities, stay hydrated, and take breaks as needed. Speak with a healthcare provider about safe exercise options to avoid triggering a crisis.
Seek immediate help if you experience severe pain, high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden weakness, or confusion, as these can be signs of serious complications. Early treatment is key to preventing worsening symptoms and avoiding hospital visits or more intensive care.
While SCD may sometimes impact your energy and attendance, managing your health well and seeking support when needed can help you succeed academically. Use time management, take rest breaks, and communicate with lecturers as needed. OOU’s resources are available to support your academic journey.
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder affecting millions globally, particularly in African populations.
As students at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), understanding SCD, its challenges, and the importance of support is essential—not only for those who may have it but also for creating a compassionate and informed campus community.
What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle Cell Disease occurs due to a genetic mutation that affects hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
Instead of the normal, flexible round shape, the red blood cells of individuals with SCD become rigid and crescent, or “sickle”-shaped.
These sickle cells can clump together, block blood flow, and break down easily, causing anemia and various complications throughout the body.
Symptoms of Sickle Cell Disease
The symptoms of SCD can vary greatly from one person to another, but common symptoms include:
- Anemia: Due to the rapid breakdown of sickle cells, people with SCD often experience low red blood cell counts, which can cause fatigue and weakness.
- Pain Crises: One of the most painful and challenging aspects of SCD, these episodes occur when sickle-shaped cells block blood flow, leading to intense pain in various parts of the body.
- Frequent Infections: Sickle cells can damage the spleen, an organ essential for fighting infections, making individuals with SCD more susceptible to illnesses.
- Delayed Growth: Due to anemia, children and adolescents with SCD may grow more slowly and reach puberty later than their peers.
- Organ Complications: Over time, SCD can lead to organ damage, especially in the liver, kidneys, and lungs, due to restricted blood flow and oxygen supply.
Medical fitness assessment and registration
Upon gaining admission into OOU, students are required to undergo a mandatory medical fitness assessment that includes routine hemoglobin genotype testing, which is essential for identifying students who may have sickle cell disease (SCD) or carry the sickle cell trait (AS genotype).
Knowing one’s hemoglobin genotype is crucial for early health management and helps students make informed decisions about their personal and academic lives.
By routinely testing all students, the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) supports preventive health measures on campus, promotes genetic awareness, and ensures that students have the information needed for any additional medical support they may require during their time at OOU.
Prompt presentation when sick!
As a student with sickle cell disease, seeking medical care immediately at the onset of illness is crucial to avoid serious complications.
Early presentation at any of our facilities helps prevent the progression of minor symptoms into severe health crises.
Timely treatment reduces the risk of complications such as low blood volume (anemia), infections that may rapidly worsen, and, in severe cases, the need for blood transfusions or specialized care at tertiary institutions like Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OSUTH).
Addressing health concerns early also helps prevent life-threatening situations, improving the chances of a quick recovery and reducing the physical and emotional burden of severe complications.
Living with Sickle Cell Disease as a Student
Being a student with SCD can be challenging, as stress, cold weather, dehydration, and even intense physical activity can trigger painful crises.
Here are some strategies for managing SCD and maintaining a healthy lifestyle on campus:
1. Prioritize Hydration
Staying well-hydrated is critical for students with SCD, as dehydration can increase the risk of pain crises.
Keep a water bottle with you, and make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially during hot weather or after physical activity.
2. Dress to Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Cold temperatures can trigger pain crises in individuals with SCD.
During colder months or in air-conditioned lecture halls, dress warmly to avoid sudden temperature changes.
On campus, keeping a sweater or jacket in your bag can help you stay comfortable and prevent a crisis.
3. Manage Stress
University life is often filled with academic pressures, deadlines, and exams.
For students with SCD, high-stress levels can lead to health challenges.
Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching to help manage stress.
Take study breaks and get enough sleep to support your overall well-being.
4. Get Enough Rest
Fatigue is common among people with SCD due to anemia.
Make sleep a priority, aiming for at least 7-8 hours each night.
A well-rested body is better equipped to handle the demands of student life and reduce the risk of complications.
5. Educate and Advocate
If you’re living with SCD, don’t hesitate to educate friends and roommates about the condition.
Explain what SCD is, what they should do if you’re experiencing a pain crisis, and the importance of quick access to care.
A supportive network can make a big difference during difficult moments.
When to Seek Immediate Help
People with SCD are at higher risk for serious complications, so it’s essential to know when to seek immediate medical help.
Visit DHS immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain that does not improve with pain-relief methods
- Fever or signs of infection, such as chills or body aches (fever can indicate a severe infection, which is dangerous for those with SCD)
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Sudden weakness, vision changes, or confusion
Prompt medical attention can prevent complications and ensure that you receive the care you need as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
Living with sickle cell disease as a student at OOU presents unique challenges, but with careful management, support, and access to university resources, you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life on campus.
Prioritize your well-being, seek support from DHS, and know that with the right strategies, you can thrive academically and personally.
Sickle Cell Disease may be a part of your life, but it does not define your potential or limit your success.
