What are the potential complications of administering excessive oxygen?

Administering excessive oxygen can lead to oxygen toxicity, which is a significant concern in medical gas therapy. When oxygen levels exceed what the body can handle, particularly at higher pressures or over extended periods, it can result in lung injury. This occurs due to the production of reactive oxygen species, which can damage alveolar cells and lead to inflammation, pulmonary edema, and impaired gas exchange.

Unlike some other conditions, such as hypoxia, which refers to insufficient oxygen, or changes in heart rate and respiratory rate, the specific consequence of oxygen toxicity highlights the need for careful monitoring and titration of oxygen therapy to avoid potential harm. Treating patients with oxygen requires a balance to ensure that they receive enough to alleviate hypoxemia without crossing the threshold into toxic effects.