Are You Anaemic?
THE TEST: Hold your palm out and push your fingers backwards. Look at the deep lines criss-crossing your palm. Do they turn dark red, or do they stay pale?WHat it sHoWs: Pale, silvery or white creases that don’t go dark when you hyperextend your fingers are a medically recognised symptom of serious anaemia. If this is you, then don’t hesitate to visit your doctor.
Anaemia, or low levels of red blood cells, can be caused because your diet doesn’t contain enough iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid, due to blood loss, some medications or a more serious medical condition. Lack of red blood cells means there’s not enough oxygen circulating your body; symptoms include fatigue, weakness and pale skin. The palm crease check doesn’t work for all people with anaemia. If unsure, go to a mirror and pull down your bottom eyelid then check inside your bottom lip. The skin should be rosy pink. A pale colour in either place gives more weight to your self-diagnosis. Anaemia can be fixed by changing your diet to incorporate more iron, or by taking supplements. The condition can get worse if you leave it, so don’t wait long before getting it checked out.
