What is a potential long-term effect of frequent high oxygen exposure without monitoring?

Frequent high oxygen exposure can lead to significant physiological effects on the body, particularly involving the lungs and the central nervous system. The year-over-year accumulation of oxygen in the body can result in oxidative stress, which damages cells and tissues over time. In the lungs, exposure to elevated oxygen levels can lead to inflammation and conditions such as pulmonary oxygen toxicity, which can impair lung function.

In addition, the central nervous system is particularly sensitive to changes in partial pressure of oxygen. This sensitivity can lead to toxic reactions that may manifest as symptoms like visual disturbances, dizziness, and even seizures in severe cases of oxygen toxicity. These long-term consequences highlight the importance of monitoring oxygen levels when engaging in activities involving higher concentrations of oxygen, such as diving with enriched air nitrox. Such monitoring helps to prevent these potentially debilitating effects and ensures diver safety.

Understanding these effects emphasizes the importance of adhering to safety protocols and recognizing the risks associated with high oxygen exposure in underwater environments.