Symptom 3. Pale Skin and Jaundice
Pale skin and jaundice are common physical manifestations of hemolytic anemia. The paleness results from the lack of red blood cells circulating in the body, while jaundice occurs due to the excessive breakdown of red blood cells, leading to an accumulation of bilirubin.
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown. When red blood cells are destroyed at an accelerated rate, the liver may struggle to process the excess bilirubin, causing it to build up in the blood and tissues. This can lead to a yellowing of the skin and eyes, a condition known as jaundice.
Pale skin and jaundice not only impact an individual’s appearance but can also indicate the severity of the underlying condition. It is essential to monitor any changes in skin color and report them to a healthcare professional, as this can help with proper diagnosis and management of hemolytic anemia. (1)
