Cyanosis is a medical condition that causes discoloration and bluing of the skin and membranes. Linked to lack of oxygen, cyanosis may be attributed to underlying lung or breathing problems. Often seen in infants with birth defects or lung problems, cyanosis also affects the elderly.
The first physical symptom of cyanosis is a bluish cast on the fingernails, lips, capillaries, veins and tongue. Cyanosis, in many cases, is linked to a serious underlying disease.
The following serious diseases or conditions may be causing cyanosis, or bluing of the lips:
- Heat disease
- Heart failure
- Lung disease
- Myocardial infarction
- Asthma
- Pulmonary embolism
- Chronic bronchitis
- Asthma
- Abnormal hemoglobin levels
- Heart valve disease
- Hypoventilation