There are two types of oxygen deprivation: Cerebral hypoxia, which occurs when oxygen supply to the brain is reduced but not completely eliminated, and cerebral anoxia, which is a complete lack of oxygen to the brain. Read more about the basics of brain oxygen deprivation. Because the brain relies on oxygen, even just a minute of deprivation can cause temporary or permanent damage. Lack of oxygen symptoms can include changes in mood or personality, memory difficulties or dementia-like symptoms, chronic pain or the inability to feel pain, difficulties with impulse control, and changes in motor skills.