7. Fatigue and Weakness
Why it happens: Low oxygen affects every organ, forcing the body to work harder just to breathe. This leads to constant exhaustion, even after rest.
How it feels: Patients describe daily tasks like bathing or cooking as exhausting. Muscles tire quickly due to lack of oxygen supply.
Medical Tests:
- ABG + SpO₂: Confirms chronic hypoxemia.
- 6-Minute Walk Test: Measures exercise tolerance.
- Sleep Study (Polysomnography): Detects oxygen drops during sleep.