Definition: Cyanosis is a condition that occurs when you do not get enough oxygen in your blood and your lips and fingernails turn a pale blue color. The cause is usually due to poor circulation or not breathing in enough oxygen.
If a person with asthma develops cyanosis, it is a danger sign and emergency care should be sought right away.
Pronunciation: sigh-uh-NO-sys
Also Known As: "turning blue", being cyanotic
Examples: When Mary had her last asthma attack, she started gasping for air. Soon, her lips turned blue because she had cyanosis.
