Oxygen toxicity

Oxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen (O₂) at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning. Historically, the central nervous system condition was called the Paul Bert effect, and the pulmonary condition the Lorrain Smith effect, after the researchers who pioneered its discovery and description in the late 19th century. Oxygen toxicity is a concern for underwater diving, space travel, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Signs and symptoms

Oxygen toxicity is characterised by a range of symptoms from mild, such as headaches and shortness of breath, to severe, such as seizures and death. The symptoms are often subtle and can be easily mistaken for other conditions.

Causes

The primary cause of oxygen toxicity is exposure to high partial pressures of oxygen at greater than atmospheric pressure. This can occur in activities such as scuba diving, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and oxygen supplementation in neonatal care.

Prevention

Prevention of oxygen toxicity involves limiting the exposure to high partial pressures of oxygen. This can be achieved by limiting dive times, using nitrox mixtures with lower oxygen content, and carefully monitoring oxygen exposure in medical settings.

Treatment

Treatment for oxygen toxicity involves reducing the partial pressure of oxygen breathed, treating any seizures that occur, and providing supportive care.

See also

• Hyperoxia
• Barotrauma
• Decompression sickness

References

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