How to manage pale look due to minor beta thalassemia?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 22-year-old female, and I have a minor beta thalassemia (heterozygous), which is supposed to be asymptomatic, but I am very pale. This makes me extremely insecure, especially when people keep pointing it out. Every day, I get at least two people asking me what is wrong with me and why I look so pale and sick. I could be feeling really good and energized, but look like a zombie from the outside.

Please tell me if I can correct this and look healthy? I am not married and do not have kids, and my period is regular and a bit heavy.

Please guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

In a thalassemia minor patient, Hb (hemoglobin) usually remains around 10 to 11 gm/dl. It is hemolytic anemia, and so extramedullary erythropoiesis occurs in the bone marrow (attachment removed to protect patient identity). So, the mandible is also affected and becomes prominent. Low Hb is also present, hence people might notice you. You can be prescribed an Iron tablet, such as Ferrous ascorbate, for your Hb improvement.

Consult a nearby hematologist for examination and get your prescription. People with thalassemia minor can live normally, and before marriage, check your husband's thalassemia minor report to avoid a thalassemia major child.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.