Changes in skin color usually occur as a result of some type of problem in the body. For example, the skin may look yellow because of liver problems, blue because of breathing problems, bruised because of blood disorders, or red because of skin problems. Changes in the body that can alter skin color in people with cancer include tumor growth, sun exposure, or side effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

What to Look for

• Yellowish hue to skin or whites of eyes
• Deep, orange-colored urine
• White or clay-colored stools
• Bruises
• Difficulty breathing
• Redness or rash on skin
• Swelling in an area that is discolored
• Itching

What to Do for Yellowish Skin Accompanied by Itching

• Take starch or baking soda baths
• Help apply soothing products to skin, such as calamine lotion, Caladryl, or witch hazel
• Take any medications prescribed for itching
• Divert your attention with favorite television programs, radio, books, and company
• Ask a friend or family member to give soothing massages, especially at bedtime
• Wear loose-fitting clothing of soft fabrics, such as cotton
• Keep your nails trimmed and clean
• Wear clean white gloves if you scratch without realizing it

What to Do for Red, Rash-like Skin

• Clean area gently with warm water, gentle soap, and a soft cloth
• Rinse area carefully and pat dry
• Apply water-repellent cream, such as A & D ointment
• Wear loose-fitting clothing of soft fabrics, such as cotton
• Expose affected skin to air whenever possible
• Protect affected area from heat and cold
• Keep your skin protected from the sun with, for example, wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts
• Apply a sunscreen agent with an SPF of 15 and higher to any skin exposed to the sun
• Apply any medication prescribed by the doctor

Do Not

• Drink alcoholic beverages
• Scratch
• Scrub skin
• Expose your skin to strong, direct sunlight or heat
• Expose your skin to the cold

Call the Doctor About Any of the Following Symptoms

• Dark or orange-colored urine for 1 day or more
• White or clay-colored stools for 2 or more bowel movements
• Yellowish color on the skin or in the whites of the eyes
• Severe itching
• Bruises that do not go away within a week or new bruises that continue to appear for 3 days
• New red or rash-like areas on skin