Cyanose, pronounced as /saɪəˈnoʊs/, is a medical term used to describe the bluish discoloration of skin or mucous membranes caused by insufficient oxygen in the blood. The word is spelled with a "c" and not a "s" because it is derived from the Greek word kyanos, meaning blue. The "y" in cyanose represents the /aɪ/ sound and the final "e" is pronounced as /s/, making the phonetic transcription /saɪəˈnoʊs/. Cyanose is a symptom of numerous respiratory and cardiovascular conditions and requires immediate medical attention.
Cyanose is a medical term used to describe a bluish coloration of the skin, lips, or nail beds that occurs as a result of low levels of oxygen in the blood. It is a manifestation of poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation and can be indicative of an underlying health condition or medical emergency.
The bluish hue in cyanose is a result of the deoxygenated blood in the veins appearing blue through the skin. It typically occurs when there is inadequate oxygen exchange in the lungs or when blood flow to certain body parts is compromised. Cyanose can be a symptom of various lung and heart diseases, such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or congenital heart defects. Additionally, it can be seen in situations of poor blood circulation, like shock, heart failure, or peripheral artery disease.
Detecting cyanose is important for medical professionals to assess a person's oxygenation status and underlying health condition. It can be readily observed by visual inspection, and pulse oximetry may be used to measure oxygen saturation levels noninvasively. Treatment for cyanose aims to address the underlying cause and improve oxygenation, which may involve administering supplemental oxygen, medications to improve lung function or circulation, or procedures to correct anatomical abnormalities.
In summary, cyanose is a bluish discoloration of the skin, lips, or nail beds caused by inadequate blood oxygenation. It can signify various health conditions, particularly those affecting the lungs, heart, or circulation, and requires medical evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Sulphate of copper or blue vitriol, used as a pigment and dye-stuff.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cyanose" is derived from the Greek word "kyanos", which means "dark blue". In medical terminology, "cyanose" refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes caused by inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It is derived from the Greek term due to the association of the blue color with low oxygen levels.