What causes a sallow complexion?

A sallow complexion usually refers to skin that has become darker, dull, and lusterless. It may sometimes be accompanied by jaundice or a bluish-purple tone, which could be a sign of poor health.

Causes of a sallow complexion:

1. Malnutrition: Long-term malnutrition, especially deficiencies in nutrients such as protein, can cause the complexion to appear haggard and dull.

2. Cardiovascular diseases: Conditions such as heart failure and heart valve disease can impair blood circulation, leading to insufficient oxygen supply to the face and darkening of the skin tone.

3. Respiratory diseases: Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can cause hypoxia, resulting in a bluish-purple skin tone.

4. Liver disease: Conditions such as hepatitis and cirrhosis can lead to impaired bilirubin metabolism, causing jaundice and a dark yellow appearance of the skin.

5. Endocrine disorders: Conditions such as hypothyroidism and adrenal insufficiency can affect metabolism, leading to changes in skin color.

6. Sleep deprivation: Excessive fatigue or frequent late nights can lead to insufficient sleep, causing hormonal imbalances and metabolic problems, which prevent the timely elimination of metabolic waste, thereby causing a sallow complexion.

7. Other diseases: Conditions such as heart valve disease, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, and uremia may also lead to a sallow complexion.

If a sallow complexion persists for a prolonged period and does not improve, it is recommended to visit a hospital for a thorough examination to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.