Peripheral cyanosis is rarely serious.
In this case, you should seek medical attention.
This article outlines the symptoms and causes of peripheral cyanosis.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
It also explains how it is diagnosed and treated.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Peripheral Cyanosis Symptoms
Peripheral cyanosis can affect anyone, regardless of age.
Peripheral cyanosis is sometimes hard to diagnose in newborns because of other skin discoloration issues, including jaundice.
This comes up whenever not enough oxygen travels from the lungs to the blood.
Other common causes of peripheral cyanosis may include:
Tight clothing or jewelry can also cause peripheral cyanosis.
Cyanosis in newborns may be related to heart, nerve, lung, or metabolic function problems.
Peripheral cyanosis affects the extremities, especially the fingers and toes.
Low levels of oxygen in the blood cause peripheral cyanosis.
The reasons behind this can vary widely, from severe low blood pressure to blood clots to heart failure.
Diagnosis
Bluish skin usually isn’t a serious condition.
Acomputerized tomography (CT) scanandX-raycan determine if there are abnormalities in the lungs and heart.
Apulse oximeter, which measures the oxygen concentration in the blood, is a helpful tool that is used.
Peripheral cyanosis can also be diagnosed using anarterial blood gas test.
This test measures acidity, carbon dioxide, and oxygen levels in the blood.
Treating Peripheral Cyanosis
Treatment starts by identifying and correcting the underlying reasons for the constricted blood flow.
Timely and appropriate treatment can help reduce any potential complications.
It’s also a good idea to limit caffeine consumption and quit smoking.
Both are known to constrict blood vessels and slow blood flow.
Cyanosis in babies tends to go away when the underlying condition is managed.
If it doesn’t, there may be an underlying issue that needs diagnosis and treatment.
Call 911 or seek immediate medical treatment if this happens to you.
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