Anaemia is a condition that occurs due to a decrease in haemoglobin levels in the blood. In some cases, it may also be caused due to the lowered ability of the blood to carry oxygen into the lungs.
In patients with iron deficiency anaemia, the body fails to produce enough haemoglobin for RBCs, as bone marrow requires adequate iron levels to produce haemoglobin.
The skin is one of the main organs affected by this condition.
Skin-related symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia?
Iron is an important nutrient that helps keep the hair, nails, and skin healthy. A deficiency of iron in the bloodstream may impact the health of these body parts.
Here are some skin-related symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia that patients may experience.
Pale skin
When iron levels deplete, the body is unable to produce haemoglobin—a reddish protein compound that impacts the blood's ability to carry oxygen.
This may cause the skin to lose its normal tone and start appearing pale.
Angular cheilitis
Angular cheilitis refers to the painful cracking of the skin near the corners of the mouth.
This is a common symptom of iron deficiency anaemia and is usually followed by other symptoms like slight swelling, redness, and in rare cases, bleeding around the affected area.
Pruritus
Pruritus refers to itching of the skin and is followed by a reddening of the affected area.
While this may seem like a mild symptom, diagnosing the underlying causes behind it and getting the necessary treatment may help avoid further complications like rashes.
Can pale skin due to anaemia be treated?
Pale skin could be attributed to a range of reasons, including lifestyle habits like limited exposure to sunlight, exposure to cold temperatures, and naturally pale skin.
Unnatural paleness in the skin, however, may often be a result of anaemia. In such cases, using over-the-counter medications may prove ineffective—iron deficiency skin problems require specific medical attention from a specialist.
To treat iron deficiency anaemia, your doctor may prescribe you iron supplements.
Once the underlying condition is treated, iron deficiency skin problems like pale skin and other symptoms may recede.
Explore more insights on anaemia and iron deficiency
Speak to Dr Suhirdan Vivekanandarajah
Dr Suhirdan is a Sydney-based gastroenterologist and a hepatologist trained to provide
healthcare services to patients to improve their digestive health and guide them through their treatment.
If you are experiencing unusually pale skin—especially along with other symptoms of anaemia—schedule an appointment with him to get a diagnosis and explore your treatment options.
Consult Dr Suhirdan at these locations
Meet Dr Suhirdan Vivekanandarajah
Interventional Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist
Bsc (Med) | M.B.B.S. (Hons) | FRACP
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Interventional Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist
Bsc (Med) | M.B.B.S. (Hons) | FRACP
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