In some cases, cyanosis can indicate a serious medical concern.

This article provides an overview of cyanosis and the reasons why you may have blue or purple skin.

It also explains conditions associated with it and when cyanosis may signal a medical emergency.

Close up of red blood cells

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It is a sign that your blood isn’t carrying enough oxygen.

The bluish tinge to your skin might not appear until your oxygen saturation falls below 85%.

Depending on your skin tone, cyanosis may be difficult to detect.

The first signs typically appear on lips, gums, nail beds, and around the eyes.

The mucous membranes and skin can appear white, gray, bluish, or purplish.

What Causes Cyanosis?

Oxygen is the element in blood that makes it red.

Thisoxygen-poor bloodis darker in color and more bluish-red than true red.

This should help boost your blood oxygen levels quickly.

Timely and swift treatment can help prevent any further complications of low blood oxygen.

Any additional treatment you may receive for cyanosis will depend on its root cause.

OTC options include Narcan (4 mg/spray) and ReVive (3 mg/spray).

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