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Risks from Breathing Elevated Oxygen
Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance
|November 22, 2019
Summary
Breathing high oxygen concentrations (FiO2) can cause absorption issues in lungs and sinuses, especially when blocked. While pulmonary oxygen toxicity is unlikely in flight, it
Area of Science:
- Aerospace Medicine
- Physiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Breathing gases with elevated oxygen partial pressure (Po₂) and/or inspired oxygen fraction (FiO₂) can have adverse effects.
- High FiO₂ (>80%) poses risks for absorption issues in the lungs, middle ear, and sinuses, particularly with obstructions.
- Absorption complications are exacerbated by increased cabin altitude.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the effects of breathing elevated oxygen levels during flight.
- To evaluate the risks of pulmonary oxygen toxicity and oxidative injuries in aviation.
- To examine physiological responses to increased oxygen exposure.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on oxygen toxicity and physiological effects.
- Analysis of partial pressure (Po₂) and inspired oxygen fraction (FiO₂) thresholds for adverse events.
- Examination of conditions exacerbating oxygen-related complications.
Main Results:
- Pulmonary oxygen toxicity is improbable below Po₂ of 55 kPa (418 Torr).
- Symptoms of oxygen toxicity can appear within 6-24 hours at higher Po₂ levels (75-100 kPa).
- Treatment for decompression sickness carries a risk of pulmonary oxygen toxicity; elevated Po₂ can affect cardiovascular control and blood sugar response.
Conclusions:
- While direct oxygen toxicity is unlikely in flight, risks exist with prolonged exposure or at higher altitudes.
- Absorption issues and bronchoconstriction due to dry gas are potential concerns.
- Careful consideration of oxygen delivery parameters is necessary in aviation medicine.
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