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Hypoxia: meaning, definitions and examples

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hypoxia

 

[hʌɪˈpɒksɪə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Hypoxia refers to a condition in which there is a decrease in the oxygen supply to the body's tissues. It can result from various factors such as high altitudes, lung diseases, or carbon monoxide poisoning. Hypoxia can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, confusion, and even organ damage.

Synonyms

low oxygen levels, oxygen deficiency, oxygen deprivation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hypoxia

This term is used in medical and scientific contexts to describe a state in which there is a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues.

  • The patient was diagnosed with hypoxia due to the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
  • Researchers are studying the effects of hypoxia on brain function.
oxygen deprivation

This term is often used to describe severe or complete lack of oxygen, usually in critical conditions or emergencies. It can have a negative connotation.

  • The diver suffered oxygen deprivation after being trapped underwater for too long.
  • Oxygen deprivation can cause permanent damage to the brain if not treated promptly.
low oxygen levels

This phrase is used in everyday language to describe situations where the amount of oxygen in the environment is lower than usual.

  • Hikers at high altitudes often experience low oxygen levels, leading to altitude sickness.
  • Due to poor ventilation, the room had low oxygen levels, making it hard to breathe.
oxygen deficiency

This term is used when referring broadly to any lack of oxygen, often in a medical or environmental context.

  • Oxygen deficiency in newborns can lead to severe developmental issues.
  • The fish died because of oxygen deficiency in the polluted river.

Examples of usage

  • Severe hypoxia at high altitudes can cause altitude sickness.
  • Hypoxia due to carbon monoxide exposure can be life-threatening.

Interesting Facts

Medical Significance

  • Hypoxia can occur in many situations, such as high altitudes, drowning, or during heart attacks.
  • Oxygen levels in the body are crucial for cell survival; without it, cells can be damaged or die quickly.
  • There are different types of hypoxia, including hypoxic (low oxygen in the environment), anemic (less oxygen-carrying capacity), and stagnant (poor circulation).

Historical Context

  • During World War I, pilots faced hypoxia due to thin air at high altitudes, leading to training for better acclimatization.
  • The term 'hypoxia' was first coined in the 19th century as scientists began to understand oxygen's role in the body.
  • Explorers of the Himalayas studied hypoxia closely, as they faced challenges climbing at such high elevations.

Impact on Environment

  • In aquatic environments, hypoxia can be created by algae blooms, which consume oxygen and harm marine life.
  • Oxygen-deprived dead zones, often found in oceans, are areas where aquatic life cannot survive due to decreased oxygen.
  • Efforts are ongoing worldwide to combat hypoxia in lakes and oceans, focusing on pollution management.

Technology and Space

  • Space missions must monitor oxygen levels carefully to prevent hypoxia among astronauts in enclosed environments.
  • Breathing equipment used in scuba diving is designed to prevent hypoxia by ensuring divers have adequate air supply.
  • Advancements in medical technology now enable quick assessment of blood oxygen levels, helping to identify hypoxia early.

Psychological Effects

  • Lack of oxygen can also affect mood and cognitive function, leading to confusion and irritability.
  • Survivors of hypoxic events often report panic and anxiety due to the sudden inability to breathe properly.
  • Research indicates that even brief exposure to hypoxia can affect mental performance and decision-making.

Translations

Translations of the word "hypoxia" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hipóxia

🇮🇳 हाइपोक्सिया

🇩🇪 Hypoxie

🇮🇩 hipoksia

🇺🇦 гіпоксія

🇵🇱 hipoksja

🇯🇵 低酸素症 (teisansoshō)

🇫🇷 hypoxie

🇪🇸 hipoxia

🇹🇷 hipoksi

🇰🇷 저산소증 (jeosansojeung)

🇸🇦 نقص الأكسجة (naqs al'uksaja)

🇨🇿 hypoxie

🇸🇰 hypoxia

🇨🇳 低氧症 (dī yǎng zhèng)

🇸🇮 hipoksija

🇮🇸 súrefnisskortur

🇰🇿 гипоксия

🇬🇪 ჰიპოქსია (hip'oqs'ia)

🇦🇿 hipoksiya

🇲🇽 hipoxia

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,030, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.