Which of the following is a common symptom of sickle cell anemia?

• A. Fatigue and pain crises.
• B. Jaundice with no pain.
• C. Increased red blood cell production.
• D. No symptoms.

Answer: (A)

Sickle cell anemia commonly causes chronic hemolytic anemia and vaso-occlusive pain, so fatigue from under-delivery of oxygen and painful crises from blocked microvessels are typical, recurring symptoms. The sickled cells shorten red cell lifespan, leading to anemia and fatigue, while their clumping in small vessels causes ischemic pain episodes in bones, joints, and other tissues. Jaundice from increased bilirubin can occur due to hemolysis but isn’t as universally reported as fatigue plus pain crises. Increased red blood cell production is a lab finding (reticulocytosis) reflecting compensation, not a symptom the patient notices. No symptoms is not correct because these symptoms are commonly experienced.