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5 votes
Does BP decrease or increase with mild hypoxemia?

A) Yes
B) No

User Pettinato
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1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Mild hypoxemia can potentially cause an increase in blood pressure due to the body's response to maintain oxygenation, but the exact effect on blood pressure is not definitive without more context.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question 'Does BP decrease or increase with mild hypoxemia?' refers to the effect of mild hypoxemia on blood pressure (BP).

Typically, the body's response to hypoxemia, which is a lower-than-normal level of oxygen in the blood, can lead to an increase in heart rate and peripheral vasoconstriction as the body attempts to maintain adequate oxygenation of the tissues. This could potentially cause an increase in blood pressure.

However, the exact response can vary depending on the individual's health status and the severity of the hypoxemia. For instance, severe hypoxemia could lead to a decrease in blood pressure if it causes cardiac dysfunction or shock.

Mild hypoxemia refers to a decrease in the oxygen levels in the blood. In response to mild hypoxemia, blood pressure (BP) typically increases. This is because the body tries to compensate for the reduced oxygen levels by constricting blood vessels and increasing the force with which the heart pumps blood.

Therefore, without additional context, the general answer to whether blood pressure increases or decreases with mild hypoxemia is not definitive (D. Not enough information given to determine the answer).

User Libertylocked
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7.8k points
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