What are the main characteristics of hypoxia in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia?

Major signs of hypoxia in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia include difficulty breathing, coughing, and sputum production. Pulse oximetry can reveal blood oxygen levels below 90%. Manifestations of hypoxia and respiratory distress primarily involve changes in respiratory rate, breathing rhythm, and other observable physical signs. Immediate intervention is essential when a patient develops hypoxia or difficulty breathing.

1. Changes in Respiratory Rate

When patients with COVID-19 pneumonia experience hypoxia, their respiratory rate significantly increases. The normal respiratory rate for healthy adults ranges from 12 to 20 breaths per minute; a rate exceeding 20 breaths per minute indicates tachypnea. In pneumonia patients, the respiratory rate often exceeds 30 breaths per minute.

2. Changes in Breathing Rhythm

Normal breathing rhythm is regular and even. However, in patients with pneumonia experiencing respiratory distress, the breathing rhythm may become irregular, such as several short breaths followed by one long breath, or alternating patterns of long and short breaths.

3. Observable Physical Changes

Patients experiencing respiratory distress and hypoxia may develop cyanosis, noticeable drops in oxygen levels, and reduced exercise tolerance. Cyanosis is easily observed when areas such as the tongue, fingernails, or lips turn bluish or dark in color.

If a patient with COVID-19 exhibits any of the above symptoms, prompt medical treatment is crucial. Immediate oxygen therapy should be administered, and immunoglobulin may be used concurrently to enhance the patient's immune resistance. If hypoxia continues to worsen, consideration should be given to using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO, artificial lung), and delays in treatment must be avoided to prevent cerebral hypoxia and potential lifelong complications.