Hypoxia: Mechanisms and Effects

Hypoxia is the condition in which there is a deprivation in the supply of oxygen in the body or a region of the body. It occurs when there is a reduction in oxygen pressure below the normal range. However, it can be a part of the normal physiology, and may occur with strenuous physical exercise or during hypoventilation training. It may be generalized or local. Generalized hypoxia can be a high-altitude disease or one in which a mixture of gases with low oxygen content has been inhaled. Fatigue, nausea, numbness and cerebral anoxia are some common symptoms. Hypoxia can result in cyanosis when severe and tissues may become gangrenous. Such tissue hypoxia may be due to low cardiac output, low hemoglobin concentration and low hemoglobin saturation. This book provides comprehensive insights into the mechanisms and effects of hypoxia. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts in pulmonology, this book targets students and professionals.