Pale Eyelid and Nails
| CARD 05 · YELLOW | |
|---|---|
| Category | Pre-existing |
| 108 | Not always required |
| Pathway | ASHA → Sub-Centre (blood test) → PHC |
What is this?
Pull down your lower eyelid gently and look at the inside surface. In a healthy person this is a deep, bright pink. If it looks pale pink, white, or almost colourless, it is a sign that the blood is low in iron. This condition is called anaemia. Also check the fingernails — pale, yellowish, or spoon-shaped nails point to the same problem.
Anaemia in pregnancy means the blood cannot carry enough oxygen to the mother's muscles and organs, or to the growing baby. The woman feels tired all the time, becomes breathless easily, and may feel dizzy when she stands. Anaemia is very common in pregnancy but it is easy to treat if found early. Taking Iron and Folic Acid tablets every single day — without missing — is the treatment. A blood test at the Sub-Centre will confirm how severe it is.
- Ask your ASHA to check your lower eyelid at every home visit
- Go to the Sub-Centre for a haemoglobin blood test
- Take your Iron and Folic Acid tablet every single day — never miss a day
- Return for a check-up after one month to see if blood levels are improving
Pathway: ASHA→Sub-Centre (blood test)→PHC
Anaemia becomes an emergency when the inner eyelid is completely white, the nails are very pale, and the woman cannot stand without support or feels faint. Severe anaemia before delivery increases the risk of life-threatening bleeding. If these signs are severe, go to the Sub-Centre or PHC immediately.
Khasi audio guide
Related cards
- Very Pale Cannot Stand — the emergency stage of severe anaemia
- Cannot Eat or Drink — poor nutrition contributes to anaemia
- Body Feels Hot — fever worsens anaemia