Hypoxia (medicine)

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Hypoxia (medicine)

Hypoxia is a condition in which there is a decrease in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues of the body. It can be classified into four types: hypoxic hypoxia, anemic hypoxia, stagnant hypoxia, and histotoxic hypoxia.

Types of Hypoxia[edit | edit source]

Hypoxic Hypoxia[edit | edit source]

Hypoxic hypoxia, also known as Hypoxemic Hypoxia, occurs when the oxygen pressure in the blood leaving the lungs is too low to saturate the hemoglobin.

Anemic Hypoxia[edit | edit source]

Anemic Hypoxia is a condition where there is adequate blood flow, but a decrease in the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Stagnant Hypoxia[edit | edit source]

Stagnant Hypoxia is a condition where the oxygen in the lungs is sufficient, but the blood flow to the tissues is insufficient.

Histotoxic Hypoxia[edit | edit source]

Histotoxic Hypoxia is a condition where the cells of the body are unable to use the oxygen supplied to them.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of hypoxia depend on its severity and duration. They may include shortness of breath, rapid breathing, restlessness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Hypoxia can be caused by a variety of conditions, including COPD, Asthma, Pneumonia, and Lung Cancer.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for hypoxia aims to increase the amount of oxygen that reaches the tissues. This can be achieved through supplemental oxygen, medications, and in severe cases, mechanical ventilation.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Hypoxia (medicine) Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD