The oxygen therapy

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Critical Care Medicine
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Oxygen (O2) is essential for metabolism; its shortage causes metabolic derangement and altered vascular tone.
• Hypoxemia leads to oxidative stress, accelerated senescence, and acute adverse effects, necessitating prompt recognition and treatment.
• Oxygen therapy is common but requires careful titration to avoid hyperoxia and hypercarbia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the importance of tailored oxygen therapy for hypoxemia.
• To highlight the risks of hyperoxia in both newborns and adults.
• To underscore the need for comprehensive knowledge of hypoxemia pathophysiology and O2 delivery systems.

Main Methods:

• Review of pathophysiological mechanisms of hypoxemia.
• Analysis of O2 storage and delivery devices.
• Evaluation of monitoring instruments and procedures for individual O2 response.

Main Results:

• Hypoxemia necessitates prompt treatment, with oxygen therapy being the primary modality.
• Oxygen therapy must be individualized, considering patient response, sleep, and exercise.
• Hyperoxia, resulting from overcorrection of hypoxia, poses significant health risks.

Conclusions:

• Optimal oxygen therapy requires a deep understanding of hypoxemia pathophysiology and O2 delivery.
• Individualized O2 administration is key to maximizing benefits and minimizing risks like hyperoxia.
• Effective oxygen therapy integrates clinical and technical expertise for personalized patient care.