Health maintenance for individuals with sickle cell disease should include a comprehensive multi-disciplinary program of care (e.g., nutritional, physical activity, preventive maintenance and psychosocial support). Parents and caretakers should consult with their healthcare provider about a nutrition program that will increase the energy levels of their child with sickle cell disease. Children with sickle cell disease should drink at least four glasses of water daily. Citrus juices are diuretics (tending to increase the discharge of urine) that can cause dehydration if there is not enough water intake. Physical activity is required for all with sickle cell disease because it allows the blood to circulate throughout the body and helps avoid blockages in children with sickle cell disease. Also, clothing should not be so tight that it restricts circulation. Children with sickle cell disease should be allowed to have a regular childhood. Parents can help their children with sickle cell disease avoid some illnesses with a supportive and positive attitude. Most individuals with sickle cell disease can handle the social requirements of normal life.
Persons with sickle cell disease are not scholastically slow unless there is a CVA or stroke. Therefore, they should not be placed in a strict special education program. However, many children would benefit from a combination program that offers regular classes with tutoring classes when necessary. Parents should visit the teachers each semester to discuss the needs of the child. They should also see the school nurse. Sickle cell specialists are available to educate school staff. Sickle cell specialists are available to educate school staff.
Due to the fact that individuals with sickle cell disease live longer lives, many new items are becoming better known. It is advisable that parents should report any chronic snoring or short periods of not breathing (sleep apnea) during sleep. These may contribute to some of the lung and chest problems that are found in adults. It would help to treat them early.