What Is the Problem with Too Much Oxygen?

What is the problem with too much oxygen? Oxygen is a good thing, right? Without it we wouldn’t be alive. Everyone knows that. The part that not everyone realizes, though, is that it is possible to have too much of a good thing.... so what is the problem with having too much oxygen?

The problem with too much oxygen is referred to as oxygen toxicity. Oxygen toxicity is a medical condition that occurs when people breathe high concentrations of oxygen, thus literally getting too much of it into their systems.

While the results of too much oxygen in your system can depend on how exactly the exposure takes place, in general oxygen toxicity can lead to a condition known as hyperoxia, which can damage the central nervous system, cell damage, collapsing of the lungs, and seizures. This condition, called hypoeroxia, is the problem with too much oxygen.

How Oxygen Toxicity Happens

Oxygen toxicity can’t happen by taking big, deep breaths, so you don't need to worry every time you yawn or take in air. The condition refers to situations in which people are breathing concentrated oxygen on purpose. During scuba dives, for example, a person is at risk. The same is true for people in the hospital who are receiving oxygen for various therapeutic or health reasons.

Science Behind Oxygen Toxicity

How exactly does this happen and why is too much oxygen a problem? It’s a complex scientific situation that isn’t completely understood, but in very basic terms, when the body gets too much oxygen too quickly the oxygen molecule undergoes a change.

The oxygen molecule is stripped of an electron, which means there are free radicals floating in the body. Free radicals do damage: they react intensely with other molecules of the body and leave destruction behind them. Since “other molecules of the body” include vital things like DNA, this is a problem and can cause serious health concerns.

Prevention Against Too Much Oxygen

You know now that the problem with too much oxygen is, needless to say, a serious situation, and as in most cases prevention is key. How to prevent it depends on the situation, but you should be aware of the danger and make sure precautions are being taken any time supplemental oxygen is being given.

For scuba divers, as you can imagine, a seizure or loss of nervous system control is typically a deadly situation, so it’s vital to avoid getting too much oxygen. This is why divers must undergo specific training and education and why you should never dive without knowing what you’re doing, or without a guide who does.

In hospital settings, make sure careful screenings are being done and ask about protocol for oxygen supplementation. A heart attack patient will need a different level of oxygen than a premature baby. Hospitals have systems in place, from warning machines to very specific training and technology, but accidents do happen, and oxygen toxicity is not something to be taken lightly. It happens. Educate yourself, ask questions, and stay informed.