Oxygen deprivation on the cellular level is called cell hypoxia.
Unless corrected or reversed, intracellular function ceases,
eventually leading to cell death. Depending on the extent of the
depletion, cells may chemically signal systemic mechanisms which
attempt to compensate for the lack of energy and oxygen. Injury and
illnesses can initiate cell hypoxia. Treating cell hypoxia entails
replacing oxygen, fluids and nutrition.
Without an adequate oxygen supply, electron transport within
the cell does not function properly. Electrons build-up, causing a
complex progression of cellular failures. Mitochondria, the energy
producing organelle within cells, loses membrane potential and quit
producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Not having a steady supply
of nutrition, cells deplete ATP reserves. This action might also
trigger an inflammatory process, creating tissue damage.
Cells emit chemical signals which encourage blood flow in an
attempt at getting more oxygen. Lactic acid and nitric oxide form,
causing an acidic environment. Ineffective electrical impulses
affect lysosomes which cease metabolizing cellular waste products.
Electron accumulation also interferes with the activity of the
sodium-potassium pump, allowing potassium to flood into extra
cellular spaces and sodium and water to enter the cell, in turn
causing cellular edema and possible rupture. Cell hypoxia also
alters cellular calcium supplies required for proper membrane
function and the release of neurotransmitters within the cell.
Ad
Membrane damage triggers the release of enzymes that begin
digesting the cell. Having no protective membrane, the cell dies,
causing cell wastes, enzymes and other chemicals to enter the
bloodstream. Lactic acid and nitric oxide in sufficient quantities
initiate systemic responses. Lactic acid reduces the heart’s
contracting ability. Acidic signals also desensitize arterioles,
decreasing vascular responsiveness to central nervous system
hormones. Nitric oxide causes vasodilatation, increases capillary
permeability, and initiates clotting mechanisms to inhibit blood
loss. Outward signs of hypoxia can include increased respiration
rates as the body strives to replace oxygen.
Hypoxia is caused by any circumstance that interferes with
oxygen access, including blunt force trauma, fluid loss, and tissue
damage from prolonged applied pressure. Illnesses impeding normal
blood flow or reducing oxygen intake also contribute to cell
hypoxia. Some researchers believe that maintaining a diet high in
polyunsaturated fats reduces membrane permeability and the cell’s
ability to absorb oxygen. Scientists speculate that oxygen-starved
cells and the processes that follow, may create environments that
encourage cancerous tumor growth.
Treating and managing hypoxia involve general care measures.
Supplemental oxygen and intravenous fluids prevent further cell
damage and encourage cell replication by ensuring adequate blood
flow and oxygen supplies. Providing oral or intravenous nutrition
assists cells in acquiring the nutrients necessary for cellular
function. Health care providers might also prescribe medications
that inhibit the inflammatory process.
"Get
15%discount on your first
3 orderswith us"
Use the following coupon
"FIRST15"
Other samples, services and questions:
When you use PaperHelp, you save one valuable — TIME
You can spend it for more important things than paper writing.
