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You can reduce your risk of painful episodes (sickle cell crises) by avoiding things that can trigger them.

Try to:

• drink plenty of fluids, particularly during hot weather – dehydration increases the risk of a sickle cell crisis
• avoid extreme temperatures – you should dress appropriately for the weather and avoid sudden temperature changes, such as swimming in cold water
• be careful at high altitudes – the lack of oxygen at high altitudes may trigger a crisis (travelling by plane should not be a problem because planes are pressurised to maintain a steady oxygen level)
• avoid very strenuous exercise – people with sickle cell disease should be active, but intense activities that cause you to become seriously out of breath are best avoided
• avoid alcohol and smoking – alcohol can cause you to become dehydrated and smoking can trigger a serious lung condition called acute chest syndrome
• relax – stress can trigger a sickle cell crisis, so it may help to learn relaxation techniques, such as breathing

Your healthcare team can give you more advice about avoiding triggers.

It’s also a good idea to be prepared for treating painful episodes at home. Keep a ready supply of painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen) and consider buying some heated pads to soothe the pain.