17. Pale Skin: A Sign of Anemia Caused by Kidney Disease
Pale skin is a common symptom of anemia, which is a condition characterized by a low count of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. Anemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including kidney disease.
Kidney disease can lead to anemia in several ways. First, the kidneys play a crucial role in producing a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they may not produce enough erythropoietin, leading to a decrease in red blood cell production and the development of anemia.
Another way kidney disease can cause anemia is by leading to chronic blood loss. Kidney disease can cause damage to the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to internal bleeding and a loss of red blood cells. Additionally, kidney disease can cause the formation of blood clots, which can also lead to blood loss and anemia.
Diagnosing anemia caused by kidney disease typically involves a physical examination, a review of medical history, and laboratory tests. Blood tests can measure the levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, and erythropoietin in the blood, and can help determine the underlying cause of anemia. Other tests, such as a kidney function test, may also be performed to assess the health of the kidneys.
Treatment for anemia caused by kidney disease may include iron supplements, vitamin B12, and folate supplements. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary to quickly increase the number of red blood cells in the body. (17)
