What is a potential complication of long-term oxygen therapy?

Long-term oxygen therapy can lead to oxygen-induced hypercapnia, which occurs primarily in patients with chronic lung diseases such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). In these patients, the body can become reliant on lower levels of oxygen and higher levels of carbon dioxide for respiratory drive. When supplemental oxygen is administered, it can raise oxygen levels significantly, reducing the stimulus to breathe and potentially leading to an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood (hypercapnia).

This condition can result in respiratory acidosis, which can be quite dangerous if not managed properly. It is a critical consideration for healthcare providers when administering oxygen therapy to ensure that patients maintain a balanced oxygen and carbon dioxide level, especially if they have conditions that affect their respiratory drive. Understanding this potential complication helps in monitoring and adjusting oxygen therapy appropriately to avoid exacerbating the situation in sensitive patients.