What is a common complication of hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Oxygen toxicity is a common complication of hyperbaric oxygen therapy due to the higher-than-normal pressures and concentrations of oxygen administered during the treatment. When a patient is exposed to elevated levels of oxygen for extended periods, it can lead to toxic effects, particularly on the central nervous system and lungs.

In the central nervous system, oxygen toxicity can manifest through symptoms such as seizures, visual disturbances, and other neurological impairments. The risk of oxygen toxicity can increase with the duration of exposure and the pressure being utilized in the hyperbaric chamber.

Understanding this risk is crucial for healthcare providers operating hyperbaric facilities, as they need to monitor treatment durations and pressures to minimize the potential for this complication while still achieving the therapeutic benefits associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This ensures that patients receive the maximum benefit from their treatment while reducing the risk of developing toxic effects from high oxygen concentrations.