Question

What is the first sign of hypoxia?

Answer 1

Hint: All the cells and tissues require an appropriate oxygen supply to carry out basic metabolic functions. There are conditions that cause a shortage of oxygen reaching the cells. This can cause a number of damaging effects on the body.

Complete answer:
Hypoxia is a condition of the body by which the whole body or part of the body is deprived of appropriate oxygen levels. It occurs at the tissue level. The first and early signs of Hypoxia are shortness of breath, restlessness, confusion, as well as anxiety. If the symptoms are not identified at an early stage the level of consciousness of the individual gets reduced and can eventually lead to the coma stage. The other signs of hypoxia that occur at a later stage are bluish discolouration of lips and skin, increased heart rate or tachycardia, sweating, palpitations, and cough.

Additional Information: The most common causes of Hypoxia are several physical conditions such as Asthma, Anaemia, Heart failure, any kind of lung infections, accumulation of fluid within the lungs, overdosing on narcotic drugs, respiratory distress syndrome etc. The further complications of hypoxia occurring in the later stage are damage to kidneys, brain, and liver. And can even lead to death. The primary treatment option for hypoxia is by providing oxygen therapy. Treatment of underlying conditions is done through steroids as well as antibiotics.

Note: Hypoxia can be classified into four types:
i) Anemic hypoxia: This can be caused due to uncontrolled and excessive blood loss.
ii) Hypoxic hypoxia: Caused due to change or increase in altitude as well as due to respiratory problems such as Asthma.
iii) Tissue hypoxia: This can be caused due to poisoning by cyanide.
iv) Ischemic hypoxia: Due to heart failure or excessive blood loss.