You are a carrier, not a patient
AS means you carry one sickle gene and one normal one. You are generally healthy, your life expectancy is normal, and you do not have sickle cell disease.
When AS occasionally matters
Under extreme conditions — severe dehydration, very high altitude, extreme exertion without fluids — some people with AS experience symptoms. This is uncommon and avoidable with sensible hydration.
What it means for children
AS with AA is safe. AS with AS gives a 1-in-4 chance of SS per pregnancy. AS with SS gives 1-in-2.
You do not need treatment
AS requires no medication and no restriction on normal life, work or sport.
Common questions
Should I tell my doctor I am AS?
Yes, it is worth having on record, particularly before surgery.
Can AS become SS?
No. Genotype does not change.
Do I need special tests?
No routine extra testing is needed for AS alone.
Can I donate blood?
Generally yes, though policies vary between centres.
Still not sure?
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General information, not medical advice. All visits by appointment.