Why is oxygen toxicity a concern for divers?

Oxygen toxicity is a significant concern for divers primarily because it can occur when there are high partial pressures of oxygen, which is often experienced at greater depths or while using enriched air mixtures. As the partial pressure of oxygen increases, it can disrupt normal cellular function and lead to toxic effects on the central nervous system and lungs.

When a diver is exposed to elevated partial pressures of oxygen, symptoms may include visual disturbances, nausea, twitching, and in severe cases, seizures. This is often referred to as central nervous system oxygen toxicity. Understanding this concept is essential for safe diving practices, particularly when using mixed gases or diving at depths where the increased pressure contributes to higher partial pressures of the gases being breathed.