How Sickle Cell Anemia Can Affect the Eyes

Southeastern Ocularists Inc.

Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder caused by an inherited genetic mutation. People with sickle cell develop crescent-shaped red blood cells, resembling a scythe or sickle, when there is reduced oxygen levels. These sickled red blood cells become stiff and do not flow easily through small blood vessels. When the sickle cells block blood flow through the body, extreme pain occurs, due to tissues not receiving enough blood.