Sickle Cell Support Services

Tips for Pain Prevention

Pain is one of the most common and distressing symptoms that sickle cell patients have. This is a review of pain prevention, home treatment, emergency treatment and inpatient treatment in the hospital. The more one knows about the causes, prevention and treatment of pain, the better the chances of an early recovery. There are different types and different causes of pain requiring a clinician’s help and advice about treatment. Pain assessment, treatment and education are better measures because of new requirements by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, (JCAHO), the agency that inspects and certifies all US hospitals. These new pain management standards should improve the pain care sickle cell patients receive.

Home management

For general pain prevention remember FARMS –

F - for Fluids and Fever, drink plenty of water and Fever management. If you get a fever see your health care provider right away.
A –is for Air and making sure you do not get into problems with not enough oxygen like an unpressurized airplane.
R- is for Rest, so get plenty of sleep, do not over do it and take plenty of breaks when your body feels tired.
M - is for prevention medications, like daily penicillin for children under six or hydrea for pain prevention. The vitamin Folate is needed to make new red blood cells
S - is for Situations to avoid, like getting too hot or cold, avoiding smoking, alcohol or illegal drugs.

Exercise and work out doors with the proper clothing for the season, drinking plenty of water, and take frequent rest and water breaks. Carry a water bottle with you to keep drinking. Avoid swimming pools that are too cold or hot tubs that are too hot.

Avoid emotional stress by pacing projects and work. Avoid situations that you know are upsetting. Join a support group, church or faith based group that offer spiritual and emotional support.