Hypoxia is a disease of the Blood.
The low level of Oxygen that reaches the tissues is Hypoxia.
Human blood has Red Blood Cells, these cells contain Hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein that combines with both Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide. The Blood circulates throughout the body. When it reaches the Lungs, the oxygen combines with Hemoglobin. This Oxygen is supplied to all body parts and the Cells. Every cell needs oxygen to function properly.
If the level of oxygen is low or the tissues fail to absorb a sufficient amount of oxygen, Hypoxia develops.
Types of Hypoxia Hypoxic Hypoxia : In this type of Hypoxia, the oxygen amount is inadequate in the Lungs. Hence, Tissues will not get enough oxygen.
Circulatory Hypoxia or Stagnant Hypoxia : As the name indicates, it has to deal with Poor Blood Flow. If the blood flow is improper the tissues will not get enough Oxygen.
Altitude Sickness or Altitude Hypoxia : When we go to higher altitude regions, the amount of Oxygen in the atmosphere is scanty. Therefore, the Body may not get enough oxygen and causes Hypoxia. It is also known as Altitude Sickness.
Histotoxic Hypoxia : In this type of Hypoxia, the problem is with the Tissues. The flow of Blood and the amount of Oxygen is fine. But when something is wrong with the Tissues, they fail to absorb the Oxygen.
Anemic Hypoxia : If you are Anemic there are chances of developing Hypoxia. In this there is a deficiency of hemoglobin or RBCs in the Blood. This causes low levels of Oxygen.
Metabolic Hypoxia : In this type of Hypoxia the problem is with Metabolism. The blood flow and absorption of Oxygen is proper. But due to metabolic problem, the tissues need more oxygen than the normal.
Whether the problem is with the Blood, Tissues or the Blood Flow, it gives rise to Hypoxia. It causes Numbness, Shortness of Breath and Nausea.
Causes Of Hypoxia Asthma
Anemia
Pneumonia
Hemorrhage
Lung Cancer
Lung Problems
Hypoventilation
Cardiac Problems
Altitude Sickness
Methemoglobinemia
Cyanide Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide poisoning
If not treated properly, Hypoxia may cause Death
Anoxia
Heart Failure
Note : If you are at high altitudes and feel Numbness, Shortness of Breath or Tingling in your Extremities, then it may be an indication of Hypoxia.
Differential Diagnosis : It is important to know the difference between Anoxia, Hypoxia and Hypoxmia.
Anoxia is an extreme stage of Hypoxia. The complete lack of oxygen is Anoxia. Whereas, Hypoxia means low levels of Oxygen in the Tissues or Blood.