Husbands coloring

[AMA250]

My husband was having bad chest pain along with purple lips and redish purple facial coloring. He was diagnosed with Acid reflux in 1998. He had surgery to correct that problem but his coloring is still the same. His lips stay purple and his face is redish purple most of the time. He has had test done: blood oxygen tests 3 times all where normal, echo test, stress test, and had wore two different types of monitors.All tests where normal. But his coloring is still the same. The doctor said it was just his coloring, but I am concerned. He doesn't have any other symptoms except for leg cramps occasionally. I just found this board and don't know if I will be able to access it again. My email address is ***@****
Thank You

[CCF-M.D.-CRC]

Dear AMA,
There are some rare hemoglobin (the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen) abnormalities that can cause skin discoloration.  There are also many different dermatological abnormalities that can lead to red-purple skin.  Most cardiac conditions (e.g. heart failure, congenital heart disease) that can lead to skin discoloration are easily diagnosed with physical exam and echo and not generally missed.  If this is bothering him I would probably start by seeing a dermatologist.

[bcrfowler]

My husband has always had a red/purple face.  His hair is brown with red highlights.  His siblings and/or parents don't seem to have the red face.  My husband has had open heart, but still has the red face.  If his doctor say its his coloring I wouldn't be worried.  I've also notice my 17 year old son also experiences that red face (on occasion).  Hope that makes you feel some better.