the Significance of Lower Eyelid Color in Traditional Chinese Medicine - Traditional Chinese Medicine

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Pallor of the lower eyelid?


Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if you examine the lower eyelids during your consultations.
I have noticed something quite strange; I previously read online that a very pale lower eyelid could indicate anemia.
When I checked my own, I found that one lower eyelid is rosy, while the other appears somewhat pale and sometimes even lacks color, showing only blood vessels.
However, I noticed that my lips are quite red, and my gums are too.
My tongue has a lot of white coating, which is hard to see clearly, but I don't have any significant pain or sensitivity in my tongue.
However, I do feel a bit dizzy and have palpitations.
Does this indicate anemia? Should I consider the more reddish eye or the paler one as more indicative?

Li Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/21

Dr. Zhang Chunfang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine


Hello, when examining the eyelids, a hemoglobin (Hb) level of around 12 is considered normal for anemia, while for males, it is higher at 14.
Other symptoms can be improved by adopting healthier habits.
Wishing you good health and well-being.
Take care!

Reply Date: 2022/09/21

More Info


In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the examination of the lower eyelid, along with other aspects of the body, plays a significant role in diagnosing health conditions. The color and appearance of the lower eyelid can provide insights into a person's overall health, particularly regarding blood circulation and organ function.

When assessing the lower eyelid, TCM practitioners often look for signs of color changes. A pale lower eyelid may indicate a deficiency of blood, which can be associated with conditions such as anemia. Conversely, a red or flushed lower eyelid may suggest heat in the body or inflammation. In your case, the observation of one eyelid being red and the other pale raises questions about the balance of your body's internal systems.

You mentioned that your lower eyelid appears red and healthy on one side while the other side is pale and sometimes devoid of color, with only blood vessels visible. This discrepancy could indicate localized issues or imbalances in circulation or organ function. The fact that your gums are red and your lips are healthy suggests that your blood circulation might be adequate, but localized issues could still be affecting the appearance of your eyelids.

The presence of a white coating on your tongue is another important diagnostic tool in TCM. A thick white coating can indicate dampness or phlegm accumulation in the body, which may be linked to digestive issues or a weakened spleen. The absence of pain or sensitivity in your tongue is a positive sign, but it does not rule out underlying conditions.

Your symptoms of dizziness and palpitations are noteworthy. In TCM, these symptoms can be associated with blood deficiency or Qi (energy) stagnation. Blood deficiency can lead to inadequate nourishment of the heart and brain, resulting in feelings of dizziness and palpitations. It is essential to consider these symptoms in conjunction with the observations of your eyelids and tongue.

To determine whether you are experiencing anemia or another condition, it is crucial to consider the overall picture rather than focusing solely on one aspect. Both the red and pale eyelids provide valuable information, but they should be interpreted in the context of your other symptoms and overall health. A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified TCM practitioner can help clarify the situation.

In terms of treatment, TCM approaches may include herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to address blood deficiency or Qi stagnation. For example, herbs such as Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis) and Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa) are commonly used to nourish the blood, while foods rich in iron and vitamins can support overall blood health.

In conclusion, the color of your lower eyelids, along with other signs such as tongue appearance and accompanying symptoms, provides valuable insights into your health from a TCM perspective. It is advisable to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner who can conduct a thorough assessment and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your specific needs. Additionally, if you have concerns about anemia or other medical conditions, it is essential to seek evaluation from a healthcare provider who can perform necessary blood tests and provide a comprehensive diagnosis.

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