What is oxygen toxicity?

Oxygen toxicity refers to the harmful effects that can occur from prolonged exposure to high concentrations of oxygen. Under normal circumstances, oxygen is vital for bodily functions, but when inhaled in excessively high amounts—particularly at pressures greater than one atmosphere—it can lead to cellular damage. This phenomenon can affect various systems in the body, especially the lungs and central nervous system, potentially causing symptoms ranging from respiratory distress to seizures.

Understanding oxygen toxicity is crucial in the context of oxygen therapy, especially when treating patients with conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or those requiring high-flow oxygen. While oxygen is essential for life, it can become detrimental if not managed properly. In contrast to the incorrect options, which describe either benign scenarios or unrelated concepts, the definition of oxygen toxicity highlights the need for careful monitoring and dosage of oxygen administration to prevent adverse health outcomes.