Introduction:
Oxygen is transferred to various organs and tissues of the body via the blood. When the oxygen levels of blood fall below the required amount, it is called hypoxemia. There are various causes for this condition like asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and recently, COVID-19, etc. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. This article will cover details about this condition.
What Is the Difference Between Hypoxia and Hypoxemia?
There is a major difference between hypoxia and hypoxemia. Hypoxia is a condition where there is a low level of oxygen present in the body tissue. In contrast, hypoxemia is a condition where there is a decreased oxygen level in the blood. It is rare for the two to occur together, but sometimes it may happen. However, it is interesting to note that usually if hypoxemia is there, hypoxia is suggested.
What Are the Types of Hypoxemia?
There are many types of hypoxemia, and they are classified based on the causative mechanism or pathophysiology. The following are the types:
1) Ventilation-Perfusion Mismatch -
This type is the most common. The supply of oxygen to the lungs is called ventilation, and the supply of blood to the lungs is called perfusion. These two measures are usually calculated using a ratio called a V/Q ratio. The values are usually in slight variation, but when there is a large variation, it can lead to certain problems. The following two can be the major causative factors for such a variation:
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Decreased blood flow even though there is enough oxygen for the lungs. Such a scenario will lead to an increased ratio.
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Decreased oxygen even though there is enough blood flowing to the lungs. This will cause a decreased ratio.
2) Shunt
The common mechanism between the lungs and heart is that the blood-carrying carbon dioxide enters the right side of the heart and then reaches the lungs and gets enough oxygen to travel to various tissues from the heart and supply it. But in this hypoxemia, the blood tends to enter the heart on the left side without taking oxygen from the lungs.
3) Impairment of the Diffusion Process
In this type of hypoxemia, the blood getting combined with or diffused into the blood is affected.
4) Hypoventilation
This is a condition where oxygen is taken at a slow rate. Hence, there will be an increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood than fewer levels of oxygen.
5) Low Levels of Oxygen in the Environment
People living in higher altitudes face this type of hypoxemia as there is a very low level of oxygen in the environment.
How Is It Caused?
Many conditions can cause it, which are as follows:
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ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome).
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Asthma.
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Anemia.
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A lung that has collapsed.
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Pulmonary embolism.
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COPD.
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Congenital heart diseases.
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COVID-19.
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Increased altitudes.
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Interstitial lung disease.
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Certain medications.
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Scarring in the lungs.
Also, it is important to know that hypoxemia can be indicative of some other serious conditions like respiratory failure.
Can Newborn Face Hypoxemia?
Yes, hypoxemia can be observed in newborns sometimes, especially in those with congenital heart diseases. The level of oxygen present in the blood is used to check for such defects. Preterm infants are at risk of getting hypoxemia, especially if mechanical ventilators are used in them.
What Are The Symptoms Of Hypoxemia?
A patient with hypoxemia can have the following symptoms:
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Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath.
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Increased heartbeat.
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Wheezing or coughing.
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Confusion.
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Disorientation.
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Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of skin, lips, mucous membrane, and fingernails.
How Can It Be Diagnosed?
When visiting a physician, initially, personal history and medical history will be taken along with the symptoms being faced. Then a physical examination will be carried out where the heart and lungs will be checked. Also, the skin, fingernails, or lips may be checked for any discoloration. Some additional tests may be carried out to assess the level of oxygen and breathing, which are as follows:
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Pulse oximetry.
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Breathing tests using a machine.
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Arterial blood gas test.
How Can Symptoms of Hypoxemia Be Managed?
Experiencing symptoms like confusion, shortness of breath, or rapid heart rate, or noticing bluish nails, lips, or skin should prompt immediate medical attention. Oxygen levels can be checked at home using a pulse oximeter. Hypoxemia should be promptly treated to prevent severe organ damage.
As the level of oxygen is lowered in hypoxemia, the main objective of the treatment is to raise the level of oxygen and bring it back to normal levels. Oxygen therapy can be used to treat this condition. In this, an oxygen mask or a small tube that is clipped to the nose is used to provide oxygen to the patient. If the cause of hypoxemia is an underlying condition, then it is important to cure or manage that condition along with supplementary oxygen (if required).
Chronic or intermittent hypoxemia may result from medical conditions such as COPD or sleep apnea, sometimes with milder or absent symptoms. Consult the doctor to manage the condition effectively, reducing symptoms and the risk of dangerously low oxygen levels.
Are There Any Complications?
Oxygen is a very important thing for the survival of the tissues and organs of the body. Hence, if the levels of oxygen are reduced, then it can affect vital organs like the heart, brain, and others, and if hypoxemia is not treated, then it may also become fatal. If someone has shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, it is important to get a consultation from the physician as soon as possible.
COVID-19 and Hypoxemia:
As everyone is facing a pandemic right now, one of the symptoms of this condition is difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, and pneumonia can occur. Hence, hypoxemia has become an important topic of concern during this COVID era.
What Measures Can Be Taken to Reduce the Risk of Hypoxemia?
To minimize the risk of hypoxemia, it is crucial to address any underlying conditions that may lower blood oxygen levels. Consulting with a healthcare provider regarding concerns and strategies to mitigate risks is advisable, especially for individuals with lung or heart conditions.
Even individuals without heart or lung issues may face increased hypoxemia risk due to specific medications or circumstances, such as travel to higher altitudes. Seeking guidance from a healthcare provider about necessary precautions during travel or medication use is recommended. Allowing adequate time for adjustment to higher altitudes when traveling is essential.
What Are Ways to Increase Oxygen Levels?
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Pay attention to new symptoms if something does not feel right. Contact healthcare providers or visit the emergency room if needed.
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If oxygen is prescribed, use it according to instructions.
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Practice good pulmonary hygiene, especially if COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or asthma is present.
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Identify triggers and ensure always having a rescue inhaler if prescribed.
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Commit to using an incentive spirometer, doing breathing exercises, and following any other lung health recommendations from healthcare providers.
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Quit smoking, as it can improve lung function and help bring more oxygen into the lungs while preventing further damage.
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Take all medications as prescribed.
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Prepare for high-altitude travel. Even individuals without heart or lung conditions can experience breathing difficulties at high altitudes. Understand how altitude changes may affect and make a plan to adjust accordingly. Know in advance what steps to take if medical attention is needed. Allow ample time to acclimate if necessary and ensure having any additional equipment or medication may be required.
Conclusion:
Hypoxemia is a medical condition characterized by decreased oxygen levels and can be due to various causes. It can be managed, but if it is not treated properly, it can prove to be fatal. It is important to consult the doctor in case one faces any of the symptoms mentioned in the article. Online medical platforms have made this task easy as COVID-19 can be one of its causes, and also, social distancing, lockdowns, and more, are hampering in-person consultation. Hence, consult a specialist or physician online through this platform.
