What condition does 'anoxia' describe?

Anoxia refers specifically to a deficiency of oxygen in the tissues. This condition can occur when the body or specific organs do not receive sufficient oxygen, which is essential for cellular metabolism and function. The effects of anoxia can range from mild to severe, depending on the duration and extent of the oxygen deficiency.

Oxygen is critical for the production of energy within cells, and without it, cellular processes become impaired, potentially leading to tissue damage or organ failure. Understanding anoxia is vital in medical contexts, especially in emergencies like suffocation, drowning, or conditions that impair respiratory function.

The other conditions listed do not align with the definition of anoxia. For instance, excess carbon dioxide indicates hypercapnia and not a deficiency of oxygen. The absence of solid food intake relates to nutritional status rather than oxygen availability. A state of deep sleep may influence respiratory patterns but is not inherently related to oxygen deficiency. Therefore, the definition of anoxia is clearly linked to a lack of oxygen.