Which condition is most likely to require oxygen therapy?

Oxygen therapy is primarily indicated for conditions that result in low oxygen levels in the blood, known as hypoxemia. An asthma exacerbation is characterized by the acute worsening of asthma symptoms, which can lead to significant airway constriction and inflammation, resulting in decreased airflow and oxygen saturation in the body. During an exacerbation, patients often experience difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and wheezing, which can reduce the effectiveness of gas exchange in the lungs.

In cases of severe asthma exacerbations, patients may not get sufficient oxygen through normal breathing, making oxygen therapy necessary to help maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels and prevent complications such as respiratory failure. Administering supplemental oxygen in this context can alleviate hypoxemia and provide the necessary support to help the patient breathe more effectively.

In contrast, conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and eczema do not typically involve acute hypoxemia as a primary concern, making them less likely to require oxygen therapy as part of their management.