Definition
hypoxaemia
noun
- A deficiency of oxygen in the blood, typically measured by a lower-than-normal oxygen saturation level.
Usage: Medical/clinical term; Also spelled 'hypoxemia' in U.S. English; Related to but distinct from hypoxia (oxygen deficiency in tissues)
Examples
- The patient's hypoxaemia was detected during routine blood gas testing.
- Severe hypoxaemia can develop in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
- Chronic hypoxaemia may lead to pulmonary hypertension if left untreated.
- The doctor ordered supplemental oxygen to correct the patient's hypoxaemia.
- High-altitude exposure can cause mild hypoxaemia in unacclimatized individuals.
- Sleep apnea frequently results in episodes of hypoxaemia during the night.