Final answer:
Hydroxyurea is a medication used to treat sickle cell anemia by increasing fetal hemoglobin production, reducing the proportion of abnormal hemoglobin S, and decreasing the sickling of red blood cells. This results in fewer painful episodes, less tissue damage, and improved quality of life for patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Hydroxyurea Treats Sickle Cell Anemia
Hydroxyurea is a medication used to treat sickle cell anemia, a genetic blood disorder characterized by the production of hemoglobin S, which causes red blood cells to deform into a sickle shape. This abnormal red blood cell shape can lead to blockages in blood vessels, causing pain, tissue damage, and an increased risk for infections and other complications. Hydroxyurea works by blocking an enzyme that helps in DNA synthesis, thereby increasing the concentration of fetal hemoglobin which reduces the sickling and subsequent complications associated with sickle cell anemia.
The medication helps to prevent the painful episodes and reduces the need for blood transfusions in individuals with sickle cell anemia. By increasing fetal hemoglobin production, it reduces the proportion of abnormal hemoglobin S, which is less able to deliver oxygen to tissues. As a result, the overall severity of the disease is lessened, and patients experience fewer health-related issues. While not a cure, hydroxyurea can significantly improve quality of life for those living with sickle cell anemia.
Hydroxyurea not only inhibits DNA synthesis but also alters the balance between different types of hemoglobin. This alteration can lessen the physiological changes observed in sickle cell anemia, such as physical exertion, weakness, shortness of breath, and complications linked to rigid sickle-shaped red blood cells accumulating in the cardiovascular system.