hypoxémiához

Hypoxemia refers to an abnormally low level of oxygen in the blood. This condition occurs when there is insufficient oxygen uptake in the lungs or when the blood cannot effectively transport oxygen throughout the body. The primary function of red blood cells is to carry oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues, and hypoxemia signifies a failure in this process.

Several factors can lead to hypoxemia. Respiratory issues are common culprits, including conditions like pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and pulmonary embolism, which impair the lungs' ability to exchange gases. Altitude sickness is another cause, as lower atmospheric pressure at high altitudes reduces the amount of oxygen available for inhalation. Certain heart defects, such as congenital heart disease, can also contribute by allowing deoxygenated blood to mix with oxygenated blood. Additionally, conditions affecting the brain's respiratory center, like drug overdose or stroke, can depress breathing and lead to hypoxemia.

Symptoms of hypoxemia can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. Mild hypoxemia might manifest as shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and a feeling of breathlessness. As oxygen levels decrease further, more severe symptoms can emerge, including confusion, dizziness, bluish discoloration of the skin and lips (cyanosis), rapid heart rate, and in extreme cases, loss of consciousness or coma. Diagnosis typically involves measuring the oxygen saturation in the blood using a pulse oximeter or through arterial blood gas testing. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and increasing oxygen supply, often through supplemental oxygen therapy.