At the same time, there are other indications for those living with this disease
June 19 is the World sickle cell awareness day and was created by the UN (United Nations) in order to increase knowledge of this hereditary genetic disease responsible for blood disorders. Although it is a chronic disease, two hematologists emphasize light exercise.
The Role of Light Exercise on World Sickle Cell Awareness Day
“Light to moderate exercise may be beneficial for patients who do not have severe chronic complications from sickle cell anemia. In better exercise tolerance and improved work performance,” the hematologist exclusively replied to Sport Life of the Itapevi General Hospital, managed by CEJAM (Dr. João Amorim Study and Research Center), Dr. João Bosco de Almeida Neto.
Subsequently, Dr. João Bosco emphasized that the intensity and frequency of the exercises is individualized for each patient during the consultation with a hematologist. However, there are some considerations made by the professional.
“We must remember that the practice of exercises acutely increases the acidity of the blood, which can trigger the polymerization of HbS and the formation of sickle-cell red blood cells. Therefore, light and short-term exercises such as walking for 20-40 minutes three to four times a week tend to be better tolerated initially.
Therefore, Neto pointed out that intense exercises, and especially anaerobic ones, are discarded for those with sickle cell anemia precisely because of the resulting lactic acidosis, which will cause the formation of sickle cell red blood cells.
What are the other impacts and recommendations of exercise for someone with sickle cell disease?
“Physical exercise is a very important tool, which helps in the rehabilitation of patients because it helps restore functional capacity and improve the functioning of the cardiopulmonary system. In addition, it stimulates social contact, which is very good for the psychological part of the patient and moreover , stimulates autonomy”, assured the hematologist at Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein Dr. Lucila Nasif in dialogue with the Sport Life report.
Lucilla also suggested that a patient with sickle cell disease drink plenty of water during and after training, maintain a body temperature that is not too high, and stop exercising when feeling weak, short of breath, pain and cramps.
“That you create a suitable environment and appreciate it during exercise. If you feel any alterations, you should immediately seek medical attention,” concluded the professional.
“Patients with sickle cell disease can exercise regularly as long as they are monitored by their hematologist. Avoid exposure to cold and be well dressed to avoid sickle cell crisis,” warned Santa Catarina Hospital hematologist – Paulista Dr. Karin Massarò.
How long does it take for a patient to improve after the exercise routine?
“When well applied and with due careful monitoring by the hematologist, patients notice an improvement in their quality of life after six to eight weeks of routine exercise,” said Almeida.
The treatments and exemptions applicable to a person with this disease
João Bosco mentioned hydroxyurea as the main drug used to treat patients with sickle cell disease. “It has the ability to increase the production of another type of hemoglobin called fetal hemoglobin or HbF and improve oxygen delivery through the tissues. In addition, periodic transfusions of packed red blood cells are indicated for the most seriously ill patients who have already had a haemorrhagic stroke,” concluded the doctor.
Alcoholic beverages and cigarettes cannot be part of the life of someone dealing with this anemia. “Alcoholic beverages, even more so in excess, because they can lead to a certain degree of dehydration. We strongly ask patients to avoid the use of cigarettes. This can compromise the lungs and in some cases cause acute chest syndrome. Sickle cell anemia, which we try to avoid it as much as possible,” concluded Dr. Lucilla Nasif.
“The patient with sickle cell disease should not take cold baths in the sea and in swimming pools, drink cold liquids, i.e. avoid exposure to cold. He should also avoid high altitudes and flying in a depressurized cabin. He should also avoid contact with people with contagious diseases”, concluded Dr. Karin Massarò.
Data
There is an archive of the Ministry of Health with an estimate of the existence of 60 thousand people in the country suffering from sickle cell anemia. Already the survey of the IBOPE (Brazilian Institute of Public Opinion and Statistics) accused in the year 2020 that 47% of Brazilians are unaware of this hereditary disease.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
