Paleness of the skin or blanching of the mucous membranes: What's it, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Paleness; Skin – pale or gray; Pallor

Paleness: What's it?

Бледность – это состояние, in which the skin and mucous membranes become lighter due to a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells. This may be due to various factors, associated with the state of the body. In this article, we will look at, what is pallor, her reasons, symptoms, diagnostics, methods of treatment and prevention.

Causes of pallor

Paleness may be the result of reduced blood supply to the skin. It may also be associated with a decrease in the number of red blood cells. (anemia). Pale skin is not the same, what is the loss of skin pigment. Paleness is related to blood flow in the skin., not with the presence of melanin in the skin.

Paleness can be caused by many factors., including:

• Anemia: iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folic acid can lead to anemia, which in turn causes pallor.
• Bleeding: Blood loss due to injury, stomach ulcers, bowel or other causes may cause pallor.
• Chronic diseases: Some chronic diseases, such as cancer, chronic infections and inflammatory diseases, can affect hemoglobin levels and cause pallor.
• Genetic factors: Some genetic disorders can affect the formation or structure of red blood cells..
• Poor diet: Nutrient deficiency, such as iron, may cause pallor.
• Fluid loss: prolonged diarrhea, vomiting or strenuous exercise can lead to dehydration and pallor.

Symptoms of pallor

Pallor symptoms may vary depending on its cause., but may include:

• Pale or yellowish skin and mucous membranes.
• Weakness and fatigue.
• Dizziness and feeling faint.
• Increased sensitivity to cold.
• Chest pain and palpitations.

When to see a doctor

Call the emergency medical number, if a person suddenly develops generalized pallor (pallor of the whole body). Emergency measures may be required to maintain proper circulation.

Also call your doctor, if pallor is accompanied by shortness of breath, blood in the stool or other unexplained symptoms.

If you have signs of pallor, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms, such as fatigue, dizziness or pain, consult a doctor for examination and determination of the cause.

Questions, which the doctor may ask

The doctor may ask the following questions, to determine the cause of pallor:

• Paleness appeared suddenly?
• Did it happen after being reminded of the traumatic event? ?
• Paleness occurs throughout the body or only in one part of the body? If yes, that where?
• What other symptoms do you have? For Example, do you have pain, breathlessness , blood in the stool or vomiting blood ?
• you have a pale hand, brush, leg or foot, and you can't feel a pulse in that area?
• How long do you observe pallor?
• Do you have a history of anemia or other medical conditions?
• What food do you have?
• Are you taking any medication?

Diagnosis of pallor

To diagnose pallor, the doctor may prescribe the following studies:

• Blood test: A study of hemoglobin levels and other blood parameters can help determine the presence of anemia and its type..
• Ultrasonography: To identify possible sources of bleeding.
• Bone marrow biopsy: In some cases, it may be necessary to determine the cause of anemia.

Treatment for pallor

Treatment for pallor depends on its cause.:

• Gradual introduction of nutrients: Anemia due to lack of iron or vitamins may require supplementation.
• Correction of the underlying disease: If pallor is caused by chronic diseases, a treatment and symptom management plan will be developed.
• Treatment of bleeding: In case of bleeding, it will be necessary to eliminate it and restore the lost blood volume.

Home Treatment

Home treatment may include:

• Increasing food intake, rich in iron and vitamins.
• Drinking water regularly to prevent dehydration.
• Compliance with the doctor's recommendations for taking medications.

Prevention of paleness

For the prevention of pallor, it is recommended:

• A balanced diet, including iron, Vitamins and minerals.
• Proper management of chronic diseases.
• Precautions, to avoid injury and bleeding.

If symptoms of pallor appear, it is important to consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Used sources and literature

Schwarzenberger K, Callen JP. Dermatologic manifestations in patients with systemic disease. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 53.

Seller RH, Symons AB. Skin problems. In: Seller RH, Symons AB, eds. Differential Diagnosis of Common Complaints. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 29.