What does the term "hypoxia" refer to?

Hypoxia refers specifically to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen that reaches the tissues. This condition can result from various factors such as impaired respiratory function, problems with hemoglobin, or poor circulation. When tissues do not receive adequate oxygen, they cannot perform optimally, which could lead to cellular damage and organ dysfunction.

Understanding hypoxia is crucial in fields like medicine and respiratory care, as it highlights the importance of maintaining adequate oxygen levels for overall health and physiological function. The other options touch on related concepts but do not accurately represent the definition of hypoxia. An increase in body temperature, an excess of carbon dioxide, or a decrease in blood flow pertain to different physiological states or conditions, but do not encapsulate the essence of hypoxia.