What impact can high concentrations of oxygen at depth have on divers?

High concentrations of oxygen at depth can lead to oxygen toxicity, which occurs when a diver breathes in oxygen at pressures greater than what the human body is accustomed to. Under water, the pressure increases, and as a result, the partial pressure of oxygen in the breathing gas also rises. This can have serious physiological effects, as excessive oxygen levels can be harmful to the central nervous system and lungs.

Oxygen toxicity may manifest as various symptoms, including vision changes, twitching, seizures, and in severe cases, it can become life-threatening. Due to these risks, divers need to carefully monitor their oxygen levels, especially when using enriched air nitrox or deep diving with regular air, to avoid exceeding safe limits. Understanding the effects of oxygen at depth is crucial for safe diving practices and ensuring divers can manage the associated risks effectively.