What can prolonged exposure to hypoxia lead to in terms of cognitive function?

Prolonged exposure to hypoxia can lead to cognitive impairment due to the reduced availability of oxygen to the brain. Oxygen is essential for the proper functioning of neural processes, and when the supply is limited, it can affect various cognitive functions. This can manifest as difficulties in attention, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. The brain relies on a significant amount of oxygen to maintain effective communication between neurons and to support higher-order cognitive tasks. As a result, when the brain does not receive enough oxygen for an extended period, the capacity to function optimally is compromised, leading to cognitive impairment.