This article will discuss conditions that cause skin to become pale.
Paleness can often be confused with pigment loss, but the two are not one and the same.
Paleness in this context does not have any connection to melanin, the pigment that gives the skin color.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
What Causes Pale Skin?
A number of different conditions can result in this happening.
Sudden pale skin is a common symptom of vasovagal syncope.
Some people rarely experience an episode, whereas others may be prone to fainting spells.
Your healthcare provider may recommend:
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemiarefers to low blood sugar.
The symptoms of low blood sugar vary from person to person, and often affect people withdiabetes.
Symptoms can be mild to moderate or severe, typically come on suddenly.
For anemia resulting from a condition, it’s usually necessary to manage the underlying condition.
This can sometimes progress toseptic shock, which is a life-threatening emergency.
IV fluids may also be administered, as well as medications that raise blood pressure.
It occurs because the tissues underneath the skin and the top layer of the skin become frozen.
It is most commonly found in the feet, hands, ears, and nose.
The symptoms of frostbite will vary depending on how severe it is.
If the tissue damage is more severe, the area will become hard and frozen.
Once the affected area has thawed, the skin will become blistered and red.
The most severe form of frostbite will cause the skin to turn white, blue, or blotchy.
Frostbitten skin is usually warmed in a bath of water mixed with an antiseptic solution at 38 degrees Celsius.
If blisters form, they will likely be drained of any fluid and left alone to heal.
Shock
Shockoccurs when the tissues in your body are deprived of oxygen, blood, and nutrients.
When this happens, the body reacts quickly to keep itself alive.
A person can experience several types of shock.
Once in the hospital, shock will be managed depending on the cause.
Some people may need heart surgery, blood transfusions, or antibiotics.
If youre with someone experiencing shock, the first thing you should do is call 911.
Blood Pressure Changes
Changes in blood pressure can lead to pale skin.
Blood pressure is the rate of force at which your heart is pumping blood throughout yourcirculatory system.
Changes in blood pressure can happen throughout the day without causing problems.
However, when blood pressure rises or drops significantly, this can indicate a health issue.
When blood pressure changes, it can either go too high or too low.
High blood pressure is known ashypertension, whereas low blood pressure is known ashypotension.
This is because these cancers can result in a reduction of red blood cells.
They will also ask you about your medical history and any medications you take.
Summary
Pale skin refers to the sudden loss of color from your skin.
Some causes of pale skin are not serious, while others require immediate medical attention.
If you have pale skin and other concerning symptoms, see your doctor right away for a diagnosis.
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