Pale Skin
Several variables influence skin color, including the quantity of blood flowing to the skin, thickness, and the amount of melanin in the skin. Paleness, commonly known as pallor, is an abnormally pale complexion compared to one’s natural complexion and is one of the main symptoms of iron deficiency. It is distinct from having naturally light skin. As the amount of red blood cells decreases, insufficient blood cells reach the skin’s surface. The hemoglobin gives the blood its red color; hence, patients with iron deficiency may thus experience a loss of skin color and warmth.
A study of children aged 6 to 11 indicated that the pallor associated with iron deficiency might affect the whole body or be localized to the face, gums, insides of lips or lower eyelids, and nails. On the other hand, patients with dark skin tones can only notice paleness on their eyelids. Symptoms of pallor is more prevalent in moderate or severe anemia situations. Pale skin is generally one of the first symptoms of iron deficiency that physicians check for. However, a blood test is required to establish a diagnosis of this illness.
