What does functional hypoxia refer to in sleep medicine?

Functional hypoxia in sleep medicine pertains to a reduction in oxygen availability to the body's tissues while the supply of carbon dioxide may still remain normal. This condition can manifest during sleep as a result of various factors such as airway obstruction, hypoventilation, or environmental factors leading to decreased oxygen levels. It indicates that even though the body is getting some oxygen, it might not be sufficient for the metabolic needs of the tissues, which can lead to physiological consequences like altered sleep architecture, increased cardiovascular strain, or a potential increase in arousals during sleep. Understanding functional hypoxia is essential for identifying and managing sleep disorders that can negatively impact health outcomes.