What is hypoxia?
Hypoxia occurs when the body does not receive enough oxygen to supply to tissues and organs, affecting the function of many organs, including the heart and brain. This condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, said Dr Brunda MS, Senior Consultant - Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru (India).
Causes of hypoxia
Hypoxia can occur for many reasons, including:
Respiratory Diseases: Respiratory diseases: Conditions such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma can reduce the lungs' ability to absorb oxygen, leading to hypoxia.
Circulatory problems: Heart failure is one cause of low oxygen levels. When the heart is not strong enough to pump blood and oxygen to the organs, the oxygen levels in the body decrease.
Environmental factors: At high altitudes, the amount of oxygen in the air is low, which can cause hypoxia, especially for those who are not used to high altitudes.
Unhealthy habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle can impair respiratory and circulatory function, contributing to hypoxia.
Signs of hypoxia
Blood oxygen levels below 60 mmHg can be a sign of severe hypoxia, affecting vital organs. At that time, the body will show some obvious symptoms such as:
Shortness of breath: A feeling of difficulty breathing.
Tachycardia: The heart beats faster than normal to try to compensate for the lack of oxygen.
Confusion and fatigue: Feeling unfocused, having difficulty concentrating, and lacking energy.
Headache: Frequent headaches are caused by lack of oxygen supply to the brain.
Coughing and wheezing: These symptoms may accompany congestion or lung problems.
Blue color in skin, nails, lips (cyanosis): Is a sign of lack of oxygen.
Improve lung capacity
To help improve your body's oxygen levels and lung capacity, Dr. Brunda MS recommends the following:
Healthy lifestyle: Engage in regular physical activity, eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and drink enough water.
Practice breathing exercises: Diaphragmatic breathing or pursed lip breathing helps increase oxygen exchange in the lungs and reduce stress.
Conclude
According to Dr. Brunda MS, hypoxia can lead to serious health problems and requires prompt attention. If you notice any signs of hypoxia, seek medical attention immediately. It is important to understand the causes and take preventive measures, especially for those with chronic lung diseases.
