What Causes Cyanosis in Newborns?

What is Cyanosis?

Usually, blood with sufficient oxygen content appears bright red, whereas blood with low oxygen quantity has more of a dull red, rather bluish hue. In newborns with cyanosis, the blood circulating through body may have lower oxygen levels, causing bluish discolouration of the skin, lips, and nail beds.

Types of Cyanosis in Newborns

There are two main types of cyanosis in newborns —

• Central Cyanosis:

This is a more severe form wherein the bluish tint affects not just the hands and feet, but also newborn's lips, tongue, and chest. This often indicates a problem with heart, lungs, or blood itself, needing immediate medical attention.

• Peripheral Cyanosis:

This is less concerning and usually affects only the hands and feet. It is often caused by exposure of the baby to cold climates or poor air circulation, and reversing these conditions generally makes the skin discolouration disappear.

Causes of Cyanosis in Newborns

A) Central Cyanosis

Several factors can contribute to central cyanosis, requiring immediate medical attention —

• Heart problems:

Congenital heart defects can disrupt blood flow and oxygen levels. These defects can involve valves, walls, or chambers of the heart.

• Lung problems:

Conditions like pneumonia or underdeveloped lungs in newborn can make it difficult for the lungs to absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide.

• Blood disorders:

Certain blood disorders, such as methemoglobinemia, can affect the blood's ability to carry oxygen.

• Breathing difficulties:

Conditions like respiratory distress syndrome can restrict airflow and prevent proper oxygen intake.

B) Peripheral Cyanosis

Factors contributing to peripheral cyanosis in newborns are —

• Cold exposure:

When a newborn is cold, their blood vessels constrict, reducing blood flow.

• Shock:

A decrease in blood flow due to shock in the newborn can also cause peripheral cyanosis.

• Certain medications:

Some medications can temporarily affect blood circulation, leading to a bluish tint in the hands and feet.

Treatment and Management

Treatment of cyanosis in newborns depends on its underlying cause. It involves —

• Oxygen therapy:

Providing supplemental oxygen can increase oxygen levels in the blood.

• Medications:

Certain medications can help treat specific blood disorders or heart conditions contributing to cyanosis.

• Surgery:

In some cases, congenital heart defects might require corrective surgery to improve blood flow and oxygenation.

How to Prevent it?

Some steps to minimise the risk of cyanosis in newborns are —

• Prenatal care:

This can help identify potential heart or lung problems in the developing baby.

• Vaccinations:

Keeping yourself and your baby up-to-date on vaccinations helps prevent infections that could lead to breathing difficulties.

• Smoking cessation:

Avoid smoking during pregnancy, as it can decrease oxygen flow to the baby.