How does hypoxia affect the body at a cellular level?

Hypoxia, which is a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, significantly impairs cellular metabolism and function. At the cellular level, oxygen is essential for the process of aerobic respiration, which is how cells produce energy. When oxygen levels are low, cells are unable to efficiently convert glucose into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) – the energy currency of the cell.

As a result of hypoxia, anaerobic metabolism may occur, which is less efficient and can lead to the accumulation of lactic acid. This shift can reduce the pH of the cellular environment, causing further dysfunction and potentially leading to cell injury or death if the hypoxia is prolonged. Thus, the impact of hypoxia on cellular metabolism includes a decrease in energy production and overall impairment of cellular functions, affecting the ability of the cells to carry out necessary processes.