Question 12
Have you heard about hypoxia? Try to gather information about it, and discuss with your friends.
Hypoxia is a condition characterised by an inadequate or decreased supply of oxygen to the lungs. It is caused by several extrinsic factors such as reduction in pO2, inadequate oxygen, etc. The different types of hypoxia are discussed below.
Hypoxemic hypoxia
In this condition, there is a reduction in the oxygen content of blood as a result of the low partial pressure of oxygen in the arterial blood.
Anaemic hypoxia
In this condition, there is a reduction in the concentration of haemoglobin.
Stagnant or ischemic hypoxia
In this condition, there is a deficiency in the oxygen content of blood because of poor blood circulation. It occurs when a person is exposed to cold temperature for a prolonged period of time.
Histotoxic hypoxia
In this condition, tissues are unable to use oxygen. This occurs during carbon monoxide or cyanide poisoning.
