Sometimes people's skin looks bluish when they're having a heart attack. During a heart attack your body shuts down the blood vessels in your hands and feet and directs blood to more important parts of your body. So your hands and feet may look pale and feel cold. If you have a blue tinge around your lips, your blood is not picking up enough oxygen in your lungs. If this happens, you may be given extra oxygen to breathe on the way to the hospital.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.