YOUR complexion isn’t just about beauty – it is a mirror of your health.
A sudden change in the colour of your face, whether green, pale, yellow, or red, could reveal underlying issues ranging from mild to serious.
While some changes might simply reflect temporary factors like stress or fatigue, others can signal conditions that need medical attention.
Niamh McMillan, Superdrug’s pharmacy superintendent, has shed light on what different facial tones might reveal about your body and explains when it’s time to seek professional advice.
Whether it’s a subtle change or something more dramatic, paying attention to your skin’s signals could make all the difference.
A greenish tint to your face might be a sign of nausea, often caused by motion sickness, anxiety, or a viral infection.
“Less commonly, a blue-grey-green tint could point to cyanosis, which is linked to breathing or heart issues,” Niamh says.
Cyanosis is the medical term for when your skin, lips or nails turn blue due to a lack of oxygen in your blood.
If you’ve been feeling queasy, it’ll likely pass, but recurring or unusual greenish tones should be checked by a doctor.
Paleness can be linked to anaemia, where your body struggles to carry enough oxygen.
Symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and fainting often go hand in hand.
Niamh adds, “Sudden paleness might be a response to low blood pressure, dehydration, or even shock.
“Persistent pallor is worth discussing with a healthcare professional.”
A yellow tint, especially around your eyes, is often a sign of jaundice.
It’s linked to liver or bile duct issues, with possible causes including hepatitis, gallstones, or medication side effects.
“Dark urine, pale stools, or itching often accompany jaundice,” the pharmacist explains.
“These signs should be taken seriously and addressed promptly,” she adds.
A flushed face is often harmless – caused by heat, exercise, or strong emotions.
But if redness persists, it might indicate rosacea or high blood pressure.
Niamh warns: “Sudden redness, especially with sweating or breathlessness, could suggest a condition like carcinoid syndrome and needs immediate medical attention.”
Jaundice isn’t just about looking a little yellow – it’s a sign that something might be going on with your liver or bile ducts.
What causes jaundice?
It happens when there’s too much bilirubin (a yellow pigment) in your blood.
This can be due to liver problems like hepatitis, blocked bile ducts, gallstones, or even certain medications.
Key symptoms to watch for:
When to worry:
If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to call your doctor.
Jaundice could point to serious conditions, like liver disease, that need prompt attention.
Avoid self-diagnosing. Get checked out by a professional for proper treatment and peace of mind.
