Here, we discuss cyanosis, its causes, signs, and symptoms, and the treatment options available to reduce the risk of complications. Keep reading. Cyanosis is divided into two categories:
Central Cyanosis: It is bluish discoloration found on the body, mouth, head, and torso. It occurs when the deoxygenated hemoglobin level is below 5g/dL with oxygen saturation being below 85% (1).
Peripheral Cyanosis: It occurs due to the body’s inability to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the peripheral tissues (2). Fingers, toes, and nail beds become blue or purple. It can happen due to congestive heart failure or shock. It can also occur due to exposure to extremely cold temperatures.
Acrocyanosis is a form of peripheral cyanosis that is more prevalent in children and adults younger than 30 years (3). It resolves within the first few days of life. Risk factors include cold climate, outdoor activities, and a low body mass index. Cyanosis can also mean there is a serious issue with the lungs, heart, or circulatory system. But what causes this skin condition? Know more in the next section.
What Causes Cyanosis?
Lack of enough oxygen in the blood turns skin bluish-green or bluish-purple. Some of the life-threatening causes of cyanosis are:
Chest wall injuries Obstruction of the airways Heart failure or congenital heart disease High blood pressure in the lungs Blood clot in the lungs Suffocation or shock Presence of methemoglobin in the blood (caused by drugs or toxins) (1)
Health issues related to the heart, lungs, or blood can cause cyanosis. You may also experience cyanosis if you have a long-term health condition like:
Asthma Pneumonia Severe anemia
Other causes of cyanosis include:
Overdose of medications Beta-blockers (medications used to manage high blood pressure), which may affect blood circulation (4) Raynaud’s syndrome Exposure to poisons like cyanide Extreme cold conditions Wearing tight clothes or jewelry
All newborn babies have central cyanosis until up to 5 to 10 minutes after birth. Seek medical help if you notice bluish discoloration in your newborn after the stipulated time. Cyanosis in children may be the result of heart or respiratory issues during birth. Children with congenital heart disease require regular immunizations to prevent infections. Some may even need a permanent pacemaker. It is evident that most of these conditions can lead to serious health issues. Hence, you must know the symptoms of cyanosis to treat it promptly.
Signs And Symptoms Of Cyanosis
The common symptoms of cyanosis are bluish, grayish, or purplish color changes to the skin. Detecting these color changes is easier in those with a lighter skin tone. However, those with dark skin must watch for purplish color changes on their lips, tongue, gums, nail beds, and around the eyes. In serious cases, one may experience:
Chest pain Breathing issues Frequent headaches Sleepiness Confusion Fever Coughing up dark-colored mucus
Seek immediate medical help if you notice any such symptoms. Your doctor will identify the type of cyanosis and treat it accordingly.
Diagnosing Cyanosis
Your doctor may diagnose the condition by a physical examination. You may also be asked about your medical history and details about the symptoms. Your doctor may examine your cheeks, nose, ears, and oral mucosa as the outer layer of the skin is very thin and has generous blood supply (1). Understanding the type of cyanosis present will also help the doctor find out the cause of the condition. They may perform a few tests to:
Know the complete blood count. Measure the oxygen levels in the blood. Measure your heart’s electrical activity. Check if you have pneumonia or other pulmonary issues.
Keep reading to learn more about the treatments available for cyanosis.
Treating Cyanosis
Cyanosis may be a symptom of a serious underlying condition, and treating it must be a priority. The treatment may involve:
Surgery: Cyanosis caused due to congenital heart disease may need surgical intervention. Oxygenation: Cyanosis can also occur due to hypoxia. Hypoxia is caused due to a lack of oxygen in the tissues. You may need respiratory support to stabilize this condition. Intravenous Fluids: Infants with cyanosis may have difficulty consuming food. They need to be administered with intravenous fluids. Medications: The doctor may prescribe drugs depending on the underlying medical conditions. Antivirals, antibiotics, diuretics, or anticoagulants may be recommended. Warming Of The Affected Area: Cyanosis caused by exposure to cold, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and acrocyanosis may be reduced by warming the affected area.
When To See A Doctor?
Since cyanosis is linked to chronic and life-threatening causes, you must seek immediate medical help if you notice any symptoms. Visit a doctor if you develop a bluish tint on your skin, lips, fingertips, or nails that does not fade in 1 to 2 days. Cyanosis often accompanies other symptoms like breathing difficulty, rapid breathing, chest pain, fever, or coughing dark mucus. In such cases, you must seek emergency medical attention.
Can low iron cause cyanosis? Yes, iron deficiency anemia may cause cyanosis if the oxygen saturation falls below normal hemoglobin levels. Can a pulse oximeter detect cyanosis? No, a pulse oximeter may not correctly detect cyanosis. Does cyanosis cause brain damage? Insufficient oxygen may result in brain damage. However, cyanosis can be a sign of underlying health conditions like hypoxia, which may lead to brain damage. Can an infection cause cyanosis? Infections like pneumonia and fever can cause cyanosis.
