Which condition is a risk factor for exertional sickling?

Which condition is a risk factor for exertional sickling?

• A. Hyperhydration
• B. Normal hydration
• C. Hypohydration
• D. Overhydration

Answer: (C)

Exertional sickling happens when red blood cells containing hemoglobin S sickle under stress from intense exercise. Dehydration is a key risk factor because it concentrates the blood, raises viscosity, and reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles during activity. This environment promotes the polymerization of hemoglobin S and sickling in microvessels, leading to muscle ischemia, rhabdomyolysis, and potential collapse. Keeping well-hydrated helps maintain adequate plasma volume and lowers the risk, whereas normal hydration isn’t a risk, and being overhydrated or underhydrated aren’t the typical factors associated with exertional sickling.

Exertional sickling happens when red blood cells containing hemoglobin S sickle under stress from intense exercise. Dehydration is a key risk factor because it concentrates the blood, raises viscosity, and reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles during activity. This environment promotes the polymerization of hemoglobin S and sickling in microvessels, leading to muscle ischemia, rhabdomyolysis, and potential collapse. Keeping well-hydrated helps maintain adequate plasma volume and lowers the risk, whereas normal hydration isn’t a risk, and being overhydrated or underhydrated aren’t the typical factors associated with exertional sickling.