The gaseous element, which is colorless, odorless and tasteless, is defined as oxygen. All living things need oxygen to survive. When oxygen, which is an indispensable part of life, decreases in the blood, serious breathing problems occur. In the advanced stages of shortness of breath, respiratory failure is observed. Supportive oxygen therapy is used in the treatment of respiratory failure.
What are the complications of oxygen therapy?
When the oxygen level in the blood decreases, pain in the chest area may occur along with shortness of breath. When this situation is acute, that is, suddenly, it is vital to go to a specialist doctor without wasting time. If shortness of breath is not treated, it leads to severe respiratory failure and various lung diseases. Oxygen therapy is a very common method used in people with respiratory distress. However, as with any form of treatment, some complications can be seen in oxygen therapy. In general, complications of oxygen therapy are as follows:
- temporary visual impairment
- dry cough
- difficulty in breathing
- feeling of dryness in the throat
- atelectasis
- respiratory depression
- Edema
- increase in secretions
- Decreased lung flexibility
- lower respiratory infection
- Lung congestion
Does oxygen therapy have adverse effects?
Giving oxygen higher than the amount of oxygen found in room air is known as oxygen therapy. It is a very important issue that oxygen therapy is performed by doctors who have extensive knowledge on the subject. Treatment is planned according to the type of the disease and the clinical findings of the individuals. The dose to be applied in oxygen therapy is determined by physicians who are experts in the field. Some treatments may take longer, while others may take shorter. The need for oxygen therapy is also determined by the evaluation of the physicians. Just as too much of everything is harmful, too much oxygen therapy can bring some risks. People who smoke during oxygen therapy should definitely not smoke. Smoking causes a further decrease in oxygen. Oxygen is a colorless, tasteless and odorless substance, but it has a flammable feature. In general, the side effects of excess oxygen are as follows:
- Tissue damage due to excess oxygen
- Oxygen poisoning
- carbon dioxide accumulation
- Damage to cell walls
- Enzymes lose their functionality
- retinal detachment
- severe cough
- emphysema
The correct application of oxygen therapy is extremely important. Excessive oxygen intake can result in death. Therefore, it should be applied by physicians who are specialized in the field.