Rahina M., 15

Rahina is a 15 year old female teenager who is living her parents in a community about 60 kilometres away from the city of Bauchi. She is in a government secondary school, sometimes she doesn't go to school due to her health challenges. The family have been penniless as they're always running to the hospital whenever her health condition arises. They are living in a two rooms apartment, having a pit toilet and they make use of water from the borehole dugged by the government. They don't have access to electricity. Rahina, a 15 year old presented with complaints of severe chest pain especially at the rib region. Pain is throbbing and constant not even responding to pain killers. Not involvement of other organs and systems. She was given pain killers as well as blood transfusion (1 pint), she got better but after two days the symptoms reoccurred. The parents couldn't take her to the hospital as they lack the finances, they contacted a Helpster Charity Volunteer for assistance where he invited them to be managed in Albishir hospital. On presentation at our hospital, she was evaluated thoroughly and diagnosed with Bone Crisis in Sickle Cell Disease/Anemia. She was admitted for three days for treatment with analgesics, antibiotics, and fluids.

Rahina a 15-year-old female presented to our facility with complaints of chest pain and sever pains along the rib region. Pain is throbbing and constant not responsive to pain killers. Not involvement of other organs and systems. Patient was administered pain killers and blood transfusion (1 pint) She then got better but after two days the symptoms reoccurred. She was diagnosed with bone crisis in sickle cell disease. Treatment commenced with some pain killers as well as transfusion, patient then continued on orals and close monitoring to ensure stability. And was discharged. She responded to treatment, no more continued pains around chest and rib region. Patient is to return for follow up after a period of one week. The family are happy and extend gratitude to Helpster Charity for the medical support.

Rahina a 15-year-old girl with sickle cell disease, the outlook is good, especially with proper medical care. Most bone pain crises get better within a few days when treated with pain medicine, fluids, and rest. The long-term outlook depends on how often the pain crises happen and how well the condition is managed. Taking medicines like hydroxyurea, drinking enough water, preventing infections, and regular doctor visits can greatly improve health. With today’s treatments for Rahina with sickle cell disease will grow into adulthood and live active, fulfilling lives.