Methemoglobinemia

Methemoglobinemia is a condition where an abnormal form of hemoglobin, called methemoglobin, builds up in the blood. Hemoglobin is the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen to your body's tissues. Normally, hemoglobin effectively delivers oxygen, but when it becomes methemoglobin, it can't bind oxygen properly. This reduces the oxygen supply to organs, leading to symptoms like bluish skin (cyanosis), shortness of breath, fatigue, and weakness. The condition can be caused by genetic factors or exposure to certain chemicals or medications. Treatment often involves medications that help convert methemoglobin back to normal hemoglobin.