Why do fingernails turn blue

The process of using this device will involve placing a cup-like instrument on a body part, such as an ear lobe or finger. This probe will use light in order to measure the level of oxygen in the blood. ABGs arterial blood gases are also conducted. This test will measure the pH acidity , carbon dioxide and oxygen present in the blood through a sample taken from an artery. An ABG will determine the ability of the lungs to move oxygen into the blood and remove any carbon dioxide from it.

The treatment for cyanosis will normally depend on the underlying cause identified by your doctor. He or she will also work towards restoring an adequate amount of oxygen to the blood. Those with blue fingernails should be aware of the following symptoms that may develop along with, or shortly after blue fingernails become evident. These are considered a medical emergency:. Swelling in the vocal cords, voice box, bronchial tubes and windpipe is often as a result of croup.

Here, we define the causes and types of croup, as well as how to recognise the signs Choking is a life-threatening medical emergency with mere minutes to appropriately respond to. Knowing what to do correctly can save someone's life.

We give you a comprehensive breakdown here A serious medical condition, frostbite can lead to severe and irreversible tissue damage. A common freezing injury, we breakdown what happens, what causes it and how best to go about treating it Home Symptoms Blue Fingernails. Blue Fingernails. What causes blue fingernails? Cold temperatures It is possible for cold temperatures to make the fingernails appear blue, bear in mind it is the skin underneath the nails, the nail bed, that turns blue and not the actual nail itself.

Let's examine these now: What conditions can cause blue fingernails? Causes of cyanosis that affect the feet, limbs or hands If just the toes, limbs or fingers are blue, this is referred to as peripheral cyanosis. These body parts may also feel cold as the cause of the cyanosis is typically from poor circulation as a result of: Raynaud's phenomenon also known as Raynaud syndrome — This is a condition where the supply of blood to specific parts of the body, particularly the fingers and toes, is temporarily reduced as a result of exposure to cold weather temperatures.

In people with this condition, the arteries constrict as a response to the cold and thus limit the supply of blood to the area that is affected. The fingers or toes will feel numb and turn blue as a result.

PAD peripheral arterial disease — This is a disease where a build-up of plaque fatty deposits accumulates in the arteries responsible for transporting blood to the organs, limbs and head. Thus, the blood supply is restricted to the limbs. Blood clots — Blood clots form as a result of the blood components known as platelets and plasma proteins, thickening, this forms a mass that is semi-solid.

This reaction can be triggered by injury or can occur accidentally inside of your blood vessels without any damage being done to the vessels. When these clots have formed, they are able to move to different parts in the body and can cause damage and block the supply of blood to a limb, or even from a limb.

Beta-blocker use — These medications, like Metoprolol sold under the brand names Lopressor or Toprol XL, are used in the treatment of hypertension high blood pressure. Clubbed fingers can indicate congenital heart disease and lung problems. Blood oxygen tests are an essential aid in diagnosing cyanosis. These tests help determine why someone has blue nails. Depending on the cause of blue nails, treatments may include :. The treatment of cyanosis is challenging, and different specialist doctors and medical teams may need to work together to manage the condition.

It is not uncommon for the nails to appear blue in cold conditions, but they should return to the normal color once the person has warmed up.

If blue nails are not likely due to a low temperature, and the color persists, it is important to seek medical attention. Doctors will identify and correct the underlying cause of the cyanosis and treat it to restore optimal blood flow around the body. If someone with blue nails also has symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, profuse sweating, and dizziness, they should immediately call These symptoms can indicate a medical emergency.

In low temperatures, the nails may appear blue, as the body constricts the circulation to protect the internal organs. Cyanosis may also be a symptom of a more serious health condition, such as a heart, lung, or blood vessel disorder. People should seek medical attention to determine the cause of the blue nails so that they can receive prompt treatment.

Raynaud's disease causes pain in the extremities in response to cold temperatures or stress. Blood vessels narrow and can almost shut down, causing…. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD refers to two lung diseases that cause difficulty breathing. Smoking is the most common cause. Learn more…. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.

Blue fingernails are caused by a low level or lack of oxygen circulating in your red blood cells. This condition is known as cyanosis. Hemoglobin is the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in your blood. Cold temperatures can also cause your fingernails to turn blue. The narrow pathways make it difficult for enough oxygen-rich blood to get to your nails. If normal nail color returns upon warming up or massaging your hands, the blue color was likely due to that part of your body not getting enough blood supply because of cold temperatures.

Blue fingers due to cold temperatures is a normal response of the body in order to keep internal organs at the right temperature. Blue discoloration of your fingernails can be caused by problems in the lungs, heart, blood cells, or blood vessels.

Conditions that can cause cyanosis include:. A noninvasive pulse oximeter is the simplest way to measure the oxygenation of blood. Arterial blood gases ABGs are drawn to measure how much oxygen is in your blood.

This helps determine what factors might be contributing to blue fingernails. Treatment involves first identifying the underlying cause in order to restore adequate oxygen to the blood. Your fingernails can say a lot about your health, and nutrient deficiencies may affect your nails' appearance. Here are 8 important vitamins and….