Living with sickle cell disease (SCD) can involve much more than what other people notice. Some signs, such as yellowing of the eyes or swelling, may be visible. Others, including severe pain, exhaustion, poor sleep, and trouble concentrating, can happen without anyone else realizing what’s going on.

SCD can also affect work, school, parenting, relationships, and plans that have to change without warning. Below are some of the things people may see and some of the experiences that often stay hidden.