Pallor (Pale Skin)
PALLOR OR PALE SKIN is defined as the abnormal paleness of the skin due to reduced blood flow or lack of normal pigments. Pallor may also be associated with an indoor mode of life. Normal healthy people have a glow on the cheeks. A definite shade of pink on the cheeks signifies a robust, healthy, outdoor active life.
Types of Pallor and Causes
1. Habitual: Racial, familial, prolonged indoors living, climatic
2. Temporary: Post hemorrhage, menstruation, bleeding disorders, and emotional stress, hypothermia.
3. Progressive: all types of anemias, heart valve infections, cancers, tuberculosis, heart attack, chronic malaria, hook worm infestation, kala azar.
4. Evanescent: nausea, vomiting dehydration, shock, syncope, heat exhaustion.
Clinical Features
1. Pale sallow skin, pale palms and nail beds.
2. Weakness, fatigue, listlessness, lack of appetite.
3. Palpitation, breathlessness.
4. Nails may be brittle and ridged.
Management
1. Improve diet.
2. Supplement iron, folic acid, Vitamins.
3. Commence exercises in the house to improve appetite, increase red blood cells.
4. Consult a doctor.
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