What type of hypoxia is linked to carbon monoxide exposure?

Hypemic hypoxia is specifically associated with carbon monoxide exposure because CO binds readily to hemoglobin in red blood cells, forming carboxyhemoglobin. This binding reduces the overall capacity of the blood to carry oxygen, even if the total oxygen content in the lungs is adequate. As a result, the body's tissues receive less oxygen, leading to hypoxia.

This condition is distinct from other types of hypoxia. For example, hypoxic hypoxia occurs when there is insufficient oxygen available in the environment, while histotoxic hypoxia results from the body's inability to utilize oxygen effectively, commonly due to toxins affecting cellular respiration. Stagnant hypoxia is related to inadequate blood flow. Unlike these conditions, the hallmark of hypemic hypoxia is the impaired ability of blood to transport oxygen because of the interference caused by carbon monoxide.