When your child has sickle cell disease there is a lot you can do to help: 

Learn all you can about sickle cell disease. Tell all caregivers about the condition, how to care for your child, and signs of trouble to watch for.

Take your child to all visits with their doctors and specialists. Keep track of any symptoms and share your concerns.

Help your child avoid pain crisis triggers:

• Encourage your child to drink lots of liquids and get enough rest.
• In cold weather, your child should dress warmly and not stay out too long. 
• In hot weather, your child should limit time outdoors and drink lots of fluids. 
• Help your child learn ways to manage stress.
• Talk to the doctor about which activities are OK for your child and which to avoid.
• Make sure your child takes all prescribed medicines.

Make healthy choices. As a family, eat healthy foods and stay active. As your child gets older, make sure they know not to smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs because these can cause pain and other problems.