What is the primary risk associated with overusing supplemental oxygen?

The primary risk associated with overusing supplemental oxygen is oxygen toxicity. This condition can occur when high concentrations of oxygen are administered for prolonged periods. While oxygen is essential for tissue oxygenation, exposure to excessive levels can lead to damage in the lungs and central nervous system.

When oxygen is inhaled at concentrations higher than what the body requires, it can produce reactive oxygen species, leading to cellular injury. In the lungs, this can result in symptoms such as cough, chest pain, and in severe cases, pulmonary edema. Furthermore, in the brain, it can lead to seizures or other neurological symptoms due to its effects on neuronal tissue.

It's important to balance the delivery of supplemental oxygen to ensure patients receive adequate oxygenation without causing the adverse effects associated with hyperoxia. This understanding emphasizes the need for careful monitoring and adjustment of oxygen levels in clinical practice.