Effect of long-term hyperbaric stress on ammonia metabolism in humans

A significant increase in blood urea was found in 11 U.S. Navy divers during 8 d of air saturation hyperbaric exposure. Similar increases in blood urea have been found in animals that convulsed during hyperbaric oxygen exposure. Therefore, it is suggested that careful attention be given to blood ammonia and urea levels in humans during long-term hyperbaric exposure.