Dive Into Success with the PADI Enriched Air Exam 2025 – Boost Your Skills and Breathe Easy!

Hyperoxia refers to an excess of oxygen in the tissues, which can occur during diving when using enriched air. Among the various types of tissues in the body, the central nervous system is most susceptible to the effects of hyperoxia. This is primarily because neurons and other cells within the central nervous system are highly sensitive to changes in oxygen levels.

In hyperoxic conditions, the increased oxygen can lead to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can cause oxidative stress. This is particularly concerning in the brain and spinal cord, where cells have high metabolic demands and are less equipped to handle oxidative damage compared to other tissues like skin or muscle.

Exposure to high levels of oxygen can lead to a range of symptoms known as oxygen toxicity, with potential effects including vision disturbances, seizures, and other neurological deficits. All these factors highlight why the central nervous system is particularly vulnerable to the effects of hyperoxia during diving.

In contrast, skin, muscle, and other types of tissues may experience less immediate and severe effects from hyperoxia, as they are more resilient and can often tolerate greater variations in oxygen levels without suffering significant damage.