People living with sickle cell disease have been advised to protect themselves from cold, dehydration, dust and respiratory infections during the harmattan season to prevent health complications.

Co-founder and Executive Director of A5 Sickle Cell Support Initiative, Aliyu Lawan, gave the advice during an interview on Wednesday in Yobe.

Mr Lawan, a sickle cell survivor, said cold weather could trigger painful crises in some patients, while dehydration and respiratory infections could worsen their health conditions.

He explained that harmattan dust could irritate the respiratory tract, while chest infections could lead to serious complications, including acute chest syndrome.

The executive director advised patients to dress warmly, drink enough water, avoid dusty environments and smoke, take prescribed medications and attend regular medical check-ups.

He urged patients to seek prompt medical attention when they experienced warning signs such as fever, severe pain, chest pain or difficulty breathing.

Mr Lawan emphasised that patients should not ignore unusual symptoms or rely solely on home remedies and self-medication when complications arose.

He said a non-governmental and non-profit organisation incorporated in September 2021, A5 Sickle Cell Support Initiative, supported vulnerable patients through health education, advocacy and medicine distribution, subject to available resources.

According to him, the initiative also educates caregivers on recognising warning signs, maintaining healthy routines and ensuring patients received timely medical care.

He called on government agencies, healthcare professionals, philanthropists and corporate organisations to support interventions that would improve access to healthcare for people living with sickle cell disease.

“No sickle cell warrior should be left to face these challenges alone,” he said.

Mr Lawan emphasised that proper health education, timely medical care, family support and community intervention were essential to helping patients manage the challenges associated with the harmattan season.

(NAN)