Numerous types of anemia are the fallout of different causes, which generally affect our body. They reduce the number of red blood cells in our body abnormally that regulate the body’s oxygen levels. Certain types of anemia cause abnormalities on our skin, which are generally known as rashes. Sometimes the formation of inflammation is a side effect of anemia treatment, and other times, it is caused by anemia itself. Research has shown that people with anemia rash are recommended liquid iron supplement to treat the underlying condition causing them.
Causes Of Anemia Rash
People with iron deficiency anemia discover small red pinpricks on the lower legs’ skin, resulting from low platelet count. Several reasons are causing different types of anemia. Some of the reasons are as follows:
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
One of the rarest blood disorders is Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura that causes small blood clots throughout the body. An unexplained purplish bruising called petechiae can occur, causing tiny purple or red spots like a rash. This rash, like bruising, is referred to as purpura.
Aplastic Anemia- Acquired & inherited
One of the most common rashes because of anemia is an Aplastic one. It is not the rarest one but can be fatal, which can be acquired or inherited. Most often seen in older adults and teenagers, and three times more common in Asian countries than throughout the world.
When there is a failure in the bone marrow, then Aplastic anemia occurs. Marrow produces stem cells inside the bones. Eventually, the stem cells lead to platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells in our body. Among them, platelets are responsible for preventing bleeding. With a low platelet count, the blood cannot clot normally, causing superficial bleeding underneath the skin. You won’t feel any pain or itching on the spotted area.
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH)
PNH is a rare genetic disorder as it produces abnormal amounts of red blood cells in our body. It is a genetic mutation that causes bruising and blood clots.
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
The destruction of red blood cells caused by the immune reaction is referred to as Hemolytic uremic syndrome. The reaction can be triggered by bacterial infections, medicines, and during pregnancy. If you are anemic and experience any unexplained bruising and swelling in your face, hands, or feet, you should immediately consult your doctor.
Other Causes
The most common type of anemia is iron-deficiency anemia. Many people who have iron deficiency anemia experience itchy skin, causing swelling and redness as you itch. In certain cases, it is seen that the treatment for iron deficiency anemia can also cause bruising or rashes. Some people are allergic to ferrous sulfate; therefore, they develop rashes as an allergic reaction to their body. If you experience any rash after taking iron deficiency medication, you should seek a doctor’s advice right away.
Anemia Rash Diagnosis
If you discover any rash or bruise on your skin with the following physical condition, then your doctor will diagnose you with Anemia rash.
- Pale or Yellowish Skin
- Feeling of fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
If you display the following symptoms, then you might have Aplastic anemia:
- Rapid or slow heartbeat
- Unexplained blood clot or bruising
- Feeling Dizzy
- Unbearable headaches
- Bleeding in nose and gums
- Prolonged bleeding even from minor cuts
- Frequent infections
You might need to see a dermatologist immediately if you experience a skin change like a rash, especially when you:
- Have unexplained rash or bruise
- Have a rash throughout your body.
- Hasn’t felt better with home treatment
- Experience some symptoms accompanying rashes like weight loss, bowel movements changes, fever, and fatigue.
Effective Treatment For Anemia Rash
One of the best ways to treat anemia rash is to treat anemia first. When you experience any unexplained bruising, your doctor first diagnoses iron deficiency anemia as a reason behind it and might suggest taking liquid iron supplements to prevent it. Other treatments for Anemia rash include the following:
- Transfusions: Blood transfusions of red blood cells and platelets can help in reducing the symptoms of aplastic anemia. The number of transfusions might depend on your condition, but there is no medical limit to it.
- Medications: Physicians recommend immunosuppressants to suppress bone marrow damage caused by immune cells while allowing it to recover and create new cells.
- Transplants: Stem cell transplants can also help in rebuilding the bone marrow and help it create new cells.
You cannot prevent anemia rash without treating anemia – the underlying cause. Be sure that you are getting enough iron to prevent iron deficiency anemia.