Risk Factors, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, and Management of Oxygen Toxicity

Pathophysiology and Mechanisms of Oxygen Toxicity

Oxygen toxicity occurs when excessive oxygen exposure leads to cellular and tissue damage, primarily affecting the lungs and central nervous system.

Risk Factors

• Prolonged exposure to high oxygen concentrations
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Mechanical ventilation with high FiO₂
• Underlying pulmonary disease

Clinical Manifestations

• Lung toxicity: Dyspnea, coughing, atelectasis
• Central nervous system toxicity: Seizures, visual disturbances

Diagnosis

Clinical assessment, pulmonary function tests, and imaging studies such as chest X-rays and CT scans help diagnose oxygen toxicity.

Management

• Reducing oxygen exposure
• Monitoring oxygen saturation
• Using lower FiO₂ settings in ventilation
• Supportive therapy for respiratory complications