oxigénmérgezést

Oxigénmérgezést, also known as oxygen toxicity, is a condition that occurs when a person inhales too much oxygen at high concentrations and/or at increased pressure. This can happen in environments where supplemental oxygen is used, such as during deep-sea diving with compressed air or in hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

The effects of oxygen toxicity can be categorized into two main types: pulmonary and central nervous system (CNS). Pulmonary oxygen toxicity affects the lungs and is typically associated with prolonged exposure to high oxygen concentrations. Symptoms can include chest pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing, which can progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome in severe cases.

Central nervous system oxygen toxicity, also known as Paul Bert effect, is more acute and occurs with shorter exposures to very high partial pressures of oxygen. Symptoms are neurological and can include visual disturbances, ringing in the ears, nausea, twitching of muscles (especially facial muscles), dizziness, and irritability. The most severe symptom is convulsions, which can lead to drowning if occurring underwater or other injuries.

The risk of oxygen toxicity is directly related to the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) and the duration of exposure. Medical professionals carefully manage oxygen delivery during hyperbaric treatments to minimize these risks. For divers, staying within recommended depth and time limits for breathing gas mixtures is crucial for prevention. Treatment for oxygen toxicity involves reducing or stopping the exposure to high oxygen levels. Recovery is generally complete if the exposure is not too prolonged or severe.