A group of lung conditions, like chronic bronchitis and emphysema, causing restricted airflow and breathing difficulties is called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In other words, this condition results in a lack of oxygen in the lungs which increases the risk of hypoxia – the condition where there isn’t enough oxygen for the cells and tissues in the body.

Unfortunately, hypoxia can eventually lead to numerous serious, even lethal complications. But, on the other hand, you can control the condition before it causes serious issues by understanding what to look for. That said, let’s have a look at everything you should know about COPD and hypoxia.

Types of Hypoxia

In general, hypoxia can be minor or severe depending on the length of time the body is affected by lack of oxygen. Also, it may come and go quite quickly or last for weeks or months. The main types of hypoxia include:

• Hypoxemic hypoxia – oxygen cannot pass through the alveoli.
• Circulatory hypoxia – impaired oxygen delivery caused by the heart being unable to pump enough blood.
• Anemia hypoxia – oxygen delivery is reduced as a result of low hemoglobin levels.
• Histotoxic hypoxia –cells cannot accept or use oxygen properly.

Hypoxia Symptoms

As you may already know, oxygen is crucial for the body’s cell and tissue development and health. Hence, you’d better watch out for the symptoms which typically include:

• Wake up out of breath
• Shortness of breath even when resting
• Severe shortness of breath when physically active
• Reduced ability to indulge in physical activity
• Wheezing
• Choking
• Persistent cough
• Skin turning bluish

If you notice any of the above-listed symptoms, consider it an emergency and call 911 straight away or rush to the nearest emergency room, especially if the symptoms are accompanied by chest pain, fatigue, confusion, or fever.

Possible Complications

COPD hypoxia doesn’t only affect the lungs. Namely, due to the inability to breathe in enough oxygen, the entire body is deprived of this key component and cannot perform basic functions.

The most common possible complication of hypoxia is hypercapnia. This condition is a result of excess carbon dioxide in the lungs due to breathing difficulties. The inability to breathe in means that the person won’t also be able to breathe out properly thus retaining too much carbon dioxide in the lungs and the bloodstream which may be life-threatening.

Other complications caused by untreated COPD hypoxia include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Depression
• Other mood disorders
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Acute respiratory failure
• High blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Heart failure
• Secondary polycythemia

COPD Hypoxia Treatment Options

Oxygen Therapy

To be able to reverse the effects of hypoxia, increased oxygen intake is needed. The go-to method for doing so is oxygen therapy, also known as supplemental or prescribed oxygen. The therapy involves a mechanical device, like a nasal cannula, a face mask, or a tube inserted in the windpipe, that provides oxygen supplies to the lungs.

Portable tanks filled with compressed oxygen may also be used in this therapy. In addition to tanks, oxygen therapy is also available in concentrators that use air from the environment, filter it out, and store oxygen for use.

Medications

Last but not least, taking medications for treating COPD is also an option for preventing and managing hypoxia symptoms. Yet, additional drugs may also be needed sometimes. Such medications are:

• Bronchodilators – used to increase airflow by widening airways
• Steroids – to reduce airway inflammation
• Antibiotics – for those who suffer from common exacerbations

The bottom line, even though there’s no cure for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, patients can manage the condition and control symptoms effectively and live a long and fulfilling life.