Blue lips with cold hands and feet: what to know

Cold temperatures can narrow blood vessels and temporarily change skin colour. Persistent cold extremities may also occur with Anaemia, Iron Deficiency Anaemia, an underactive thyroid called Hypothyroidism, or reduced blood flow such as Peripheral Arterial Disease. Blue lips are more concerning than cold fingers alone because they may indicate reduced oxygen; the tongue and inside of the mouth are useful areas to check.

Move indoors, remove wet clothing and warm gradually with dry layers and a warm environment. Do not place numb skin directly against a very hot surface. Check whether the lips return to their usual colour and note any breathlessness, dizziness or chest discomfort. If episodes recur, arrange a medical review; bring a list of medicines and mention fatigue, heavy periods or thyroid symptoms.

Call emergency services for blue lips that persist after warming, or for blue lips with trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, severe drowsiness or sudden weakness. Urgent assessment is also needed if one limb becomes cold, pale, painful or numb, or if symptoms follow choking or an allergic reaction. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or short of breath.

Could Anaemia, Hypothyroidism or circulation explain my symptoms? Do I need an oxygen check, blood count or thyroid tests? Would Iron Supplementation be appropriate, and how would we confirm iron deficiency first?