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To stay alive, all creatures in this world need oxygen to breath. Then, what happen if we are running out of oxygen? The answer is we will in a condition which is called “hypoxia”.

Hypoxia or often says as hypoxemia is a condition in which there is an inadequate supply of oxygen in the blood and sufficient to cause an impairment of function. Hypoxia is caused by the reduction in partial pressure of oxygen, inadequate oxygen transport, or the inability of the tissues to use oxygen. A condition in high altitudes such as mountains where the reduced partial pressure of oxygen available leads to hypoxia.

Symptoms of generalized hypoxia depend on its severity and speed of onset. In the case of altitude sickness, where hypoxia develops gradually, the symptoms include headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, a feeling of euphoria and nausea.

There are several types of hypoxia:

1. Hypoxic hypoxia is a generalized hypoxia, an inadequate supply of oxygen to the body as a whole. This condition occurs when there is a reduction in oxygen pressure in the lungs, reduced gas exchange area, and lung disease.

2. Anemic hypoxia in which arterial oxygen pressure is normal, but total oxygen content of the blood is reduced.

3. Hypemic hypoxia is a reduction in the capacity of the blood to carry oxygen. This condition is caused by first, a reduction of hemoglobin in the blood. This may be caused by blood donation, hemorrhage, or anemia. Second, a reduction in the number of red blood cells which can be caused by drugs, chemicals, smoking, or carbon monoxide exposure.

4. Histotoxic hypoxia in which quantity of oxygen reaching the cells is normal, but the cells are unable to effectively use the oxygen due to disabled oxidative phosphorylation enzymes. This condition occurs during carbon monoxide or cyanide poisoning, or from the use of certain narcotics, chewing tobacco, and alcohol.

5. Stagnant hypoxia is a deficiency in oxygen due to poor blood circulation. This condition occurs when a person sits or hangs, or is exposed to cold temperatures for prolonged periods of time.

Well, hypoxia can lead us to death, and if you think that there are too many important things you may leave in this world if you die, you must lessen everything which can lead you to hypoxia. It can be anything such as smoking, getting drunk or too lazy to do sport. Still, to stay healthy is one of your private responsibility.

the sparkling water photo by Nick Benjaminsz

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