There are many different reasons why a child may appear pale. While there is usually a simple explanation for paleness, it can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious condition. If you can find no reason for your child's pallor, it is probably time for a trip to the pediatrician.
Anemia
Anemia is the most common cause of paleness in children. It is caused by a decreased number of white blood cells. Along with pale skin, it can also cause the gums and lips to pale. While there are many causes for anemia, in children it is usually caused by an iron deficiency. Iron is needed to produce red blood cells, and a body lacking in iron will not produce enough. If this is the case, an iron supplement can be prescribed and diet changes can be made to remedy the problem.
Childhood Leukemia
Paleness can be one symptom of childhood leukemia, though it will not be the only symptom present. Children with leukemia often suffer from anemia as well, which causes the skin pallor. While parents should not assume their child has leukemia based solely on pale skin, if it is accompanied by fatigue, joint pain or swelling lymph nodes a doctor should be consulted right away. If your child does have leukemia, it is important for it to be identified as early as possible so that treatment can begin.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a condition that causes skin to lose its color. The skin cells of people with vitiligo stop producing melanin, the pigment that causes skin to have color. This condition usually causes patches of paleness all over a person's body, regardless of the person's original skin color. The cause of vitiligo is unknown, though it may be an autoimmune disease. Having a skin condition such as this can be quite embarrassing for children and parents should be sensitive to this if their child is diagnosed with vitiligo.
Illness
Sometimes the onset of an illness such as a cold or the flu can cause your child to look pale. This paleness is usually due to a decreased oxygen flow in the bloodstream. However, paleness will not be the only symptom your child will have if her pallor is caused by an illness. Look for other cold and flu symptoms such as a cough, stuffy nose or fever. While the common cold has no cure, it is important to contact your pediatrician if your child is running a high fever.
Lack of Sun Exposure
Lack of sun exposure is often the reason a child has pale skin. Parents may notice that their child's complexion pales during the winter and may become concerned that she is sick. However, more often than not it is simply because she is spending more time indoors. To test this, bring your child outside daily, weather permitting, and see if her color returns. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate use of sunscreen, as this can differ depending on your child's age.
