What is hypoxia?

Hypoxia refers to a deficiency of oxygen in the tissues, which can occur for various reasons, including high altitude, respiratory issues, or reduced oxygen availability. When the body or specific tissues do not receive adequate oxygen, it can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as shortness of breath, confusion, and fatigue.

In contrast, excessive oxygen in the body, known as hyperoxia, can lead to its own set of complications but does not characterize hypoxia. High-altitude adaptation involves physiological changes that help the body cope with lower oxygen levels but does not define hypoxia itself. A respiratory condition due to pollution might lead to decreased oxygen availability but is not synonymous with hypoxia. Understanding hypoxia is crucial, especially in aviation and dispatch contexts, as it directly impacts pilot and passenger health at higher altitudes or in emergencies where oxygen levels may be compromised.