Which of the following is a symptom of hypoxia?

Hypoxia, a condition characterized by insufficient oxygen in the body, can lead to various symptoms as the body's tissues and organs start to function poorly due to lack of oxygen. One of the most notable signs of hypoxia is "air hunger," which refers to the sensation of gasping or struggling to breathe, even when the airways are open. This feeling occurs because the body is signaling that it is not receiving enough oxygen and is attempting to compensate by stimulating the respiratory drive.

In contrast, increased appetite, improved focus, and greater stamina are not associated with hypoxia. In fact, when a person is hypoxic, they may experience decreased cognitive function and fatigue rather than improved focus or stamina. These detrimental effects stem from the lack of oxygen impacting both physical and mental performance. Hence, the correct recognition of air hunger serves as an important indicator of hypoxia.