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Topic Overview

People who have sickle cell disease can sometimes have vision problems. Blood cells that change shape, or "sickle," can get trapped in blood vessels, blocking the blood flow. When this blockage occurs in the small blood vessels in the inner lining (retina) of the eyes, it can cause vision problems. This most often occurs in people who have hemoglobin SC disease, a type of sickle cell disease.

In the worst cases, the retina may come loose, leading to permanent blindness. This may happen suddenly, without any warning.

Early detection can help prevent these problems. Have your child's eyes checked during the newborn period and again at all routine checkups.footnote 1And get routine eye examinations as an adult. Try to go to a doctor who specializes in eye problems (ophthalmologist).

Related Information

References

Citations

  1. Community Paediatrics Committee, Canadian Paediatric Society (2009, reaffirmed 2016). Vision screening in infants, children and youth. Paediatrics and Child Health, 14(4): 246-248. http://www.cps.ca/en/documents/position/children-vision-screening. Accessed March 10, 2017.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Donald Sproule, MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Martin H. Steinberg, MD - Hematology

Current as ofOctober 9, 2017

Current as of: October 9, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Donald Sproule, MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine & Martin H. Steinberg, MD - Hematology