Understanding Green Skin: Causes, Symptoms & When to Seek Help

There are several reasons why someone's skin might appear green. Some of these reasons include:

1. Methaemoglobinaemia: This is a condition where an abnormal version of haemoglobin, called methaemoglobin, forms. Methaemoglobin cannot transport oxygen effectively, leading to a bluish green discoloration of the skin, especially in the lips and fingertips. It can be caused by certain medications, chemicals, or even certain foods in susceptible individuals.

2. Jaundice: A build-up of bilirubin, a yellow pigment naturally produced by the breakdown of red blood cells, can lead to a condition known as jaundice. When bilirubin levels in the blood become high, it can cause a yellowish discoloration of the skin, whites of the eyes, and mucous membranes. However, in extreme cases, when bilirubin levels are very high, the skin may appear greenish-yellow.

3. Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause skin discoloration as a side effect. For example, certain antimalarial drugs, as well as some antibiotics, can cause green or greyish-green discoloration of the skin.

4. Wilson's Disease: This is a rare inherited disorder that affects copper metabolism in the body. One of the symptoms of Wilson's Disease is a greenish-yellowish discoloration of the skin, particularly around the eyes, due to the accumulation of copper in various tissues, including the skin.

5. Argyria: This condition arises from excessive exposure to silver compounds, leading to a build-up of silver in the skin's tissues. Over time, the skin may appear grey, blue-grey, or even greenish in colour. Argyria is often permanent and can be caused by occupational exposure or by taking silver medications over a long period.