A patient with sickle cell anemia or sickle cell trait may suffer problems during air travel.
Patient selection: sickle cell disease, sickle cell trait, hemoglobin SC, hemoglobin S-beta thalassemia, hemoglobin SD, hemoglobin SE
Risk factors:
(1) high altitude and unpressurized
(2) high altitude and sudden decompression
(3) comorbid medical conditions
(4) long-haul flight
(5) stress
(6) cold exposure
(7) dehydration
Complications may include:
(1) acute splenic sequestration
(2) vaso-occlusive crisis with or without organ infarction
(3) bone pain crisis
(4) thrombosis
Risk reduction:
(1) supplemental oxygen if at increased risk
(2) dress warmly
(3) keep hydrated
(4) keep active
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Specialty: Emergency Medicine
