Paradoxically, therefore, giving too much oxygen at the time of an acute infarction may worsen oxygen delivery to the cardiac muscle. Hyperoxaemia can cause coronary vasoconstriction. Evidence does exist, however, that inappropriate use of oxygen can be detrimental. Oxygen saves lives when used appropriately to correct hypoxaemia and is an essential component in resuscitation of the critically ill however, there is little evidence that supra-physiological levels of oxygen have a clinical benefit in most instances. It is well established that severe hypoxaemia results in rapid organ failure and death. Historically, high levels of oxygen were given to all patients with dyspnoea and critical illness. Dyspnoea can occur for many reasons other than cardiorespiratory disease, including metabolic acidosis, anxiety and pain, and treatment with oxygen is not indicated in these cases.Īnother common misconception is that one “can’t give too much oxygen” and there is general lack of appreciation for the dangers of “hyperoxaemia” (higher than normal arterial oxygen levels). No evidence of benefit exists for administering oxygen in patients who are normoxaemic (normal arterial oxygen levels) or very mildly hypoxaemic. It is widely believed that that supplemental oxygen relieves dyspnoea in the absence of hypoxaemia (low arterial oxygen levels). There are common misconceptions regarding the safe use of oxygen and many people are unaware of the dangers of hyperoxaemia
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