Impaired oxygenation can result from exposure to certain chemicals and toxins. Some common causes include:
Carbon monoxide poisoning: Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin with a higher affinity than oxygen, reducing the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. Cyanide poisoning: Cyanide inhibits cellular respiration by binding to cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, preventing cells from using oxygen. Methemoglobinemia: Certain drugs and chemicals can oxidize hemoglobin to methemoglobin, which cannot carry oxygen effectively. Exposure to sulfhemoglobin-forming agents which result in sulfhemoglobinemia, reducing the blood's oxygen delivery capacity. Inhalation of toxic gases: Gases like chlorine and ammonia can cause respiratory tract irritation and lead to impaired oxygen exchange in the lungs.
