When diving underwater, oxygen is typically considered toxic at a partial pressure of 1.4. However, hyperbaric chamber treatment tables regularly require taking patients up to 60fsw on 100% O2, which translates to a partial pressure of 2.81. Why is the same amount of oxygen more toxic underwater than in the chamber, if the pressure exerted on both the body and the gas are the same in both scenarios? What variable when we’re “dry” allows us to tolerate more than double the amount of oxygen than when we’re “wet”?
In: Biology
When diving, you are on your own. Well maybe with a buddy. If you start convulsing, you may well drown.
In a chamber, you are monitored by medical professionals. Also, if you are in a chamber, you are there for a reason. The risk of oxygen toxicity is lower than the risk of staying outside.
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