Syrebrister

Syrebrister is a Swedish term used to describe conditions in which the body's tissues do not receive enough oxygen, i.e., hypoxia. The plural form is commonly used when referring to multiple episodes or types of oxygen shortage. Syrebrister can occur in medical, occupational, and environmental contexts and range from mild to life threatening, depending on cause, duration, and the body's ability to compensate.

Causes of syrebrister include reduced oxygen content in inhaled air (high altitude, enclosed spaces with poor ventilation), impaired lung function (airway obstruction, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute respiratory distress), circulatory problems (heart failure, shock), anemia or other conditions that limit oxygen transport, and impaired cellular use of oxygen (certain poisons or severe sepsis). Environmental and occupational settings such as diving, mining, or aviation can present specific risks related to oxygen availability or delivery systems.

Symptoms vary with severity and may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, confusion, tachycardia, and in more severe cases cyanosis or loss of consciousness. Diagnostically, clinicians rely on clinical assessment together with tools like pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas analysis to gauge oxygenation and acid-base status, and to identify underlying causes.

Treatment aims to restore adequate oxygen delivery and address root causes. This typically involves supplemental oxygen, airway support if needed, and management of the underlying condition (e.g., infection, obstruction, fluid or blood replacement). Prevention focuses on ensuring adequate ventilation and oxygen supply in workplaces and during activities such as flight or diving, along with rapid response protocols for suspected hypoxia. Prognosis depends on cause, duration, and the effectiveness of timely intervention.