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Self-help: When to call the doctor or go to the hospital
Fever - If you have a temperature 39ºC (101F) or above.
Headache - Severe headache, dizziness or stiff neck.
Chest discomfort - Pain or trouble breathing.
Stomach discomfort - Severe pain or swelling.
Colour - Very pale palms of hands or lips.
Spleen - Sudden enlargement, pain.
Penis - Painful erection lasting for more than four hours.
Change in behaviour - Appears confused, drowsy or unable to speak.
Fits (convulsions) - Body spasms.
Weakness - This may affect one side of the body or both and may include inability to walk.
Admission to hospital
If you need to go into hospital and your GP cannot see you quickly to make a referral.
For adults, telephone Medical Assessment Unit at New Cross Hospital on 643080.
For children telephone switchboard on 307999 and ask for Children’s ward.
Tell them the name of your doctor who looks after you when you are in hospital.
Tell them you have a sickle cell disorder and need to come in urgently.
Give them your hospital number.
Carry any useful information with you e.g. diagnosis, medication, GP details.
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