The evaluation of sickle cell anemia begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with sickle cell anemia may include:

• Congested lungs:
• During examination with a stethoscope
• Cyanosis:
• Blue lips or nailbeds
• Decreased blood oxygen levels
• Jaundice:
• Yellow skin
• Yellow eyes
• Pale skin
• Priapism
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid pulse
• Joint swelling

Those with sickle cell anemia are at risk for a stroke.

Physical findings in someone with a stroke may include:

• Numbness in one arm or leg:
• Arm numbness (unilateral)
• Leg numbness (unilateral)
• Arm and leg numbness (unilateral)
• Weakness in one arm or leg:
• Arm weakness (unilateral)
• Leg weakness (unilateral)
• Arm and leg weakness (unilateral)
• Facial weakness (unilateral):
• Facial drooping
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty walking

Tests are necessary to make the diagnosis of sickle cell anemia.

Tests that may be used to evaluate sickle cell anemia include:

• Hemoglobin electrophoresis
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
• Complete blood count
• Rapid sickle test
• Chest x-ray:
• Normal
• Pneumonia
• Bone scan
• CT scanning of the brain
• MRI scan of the brain