What risk is associated with delivering high-flow oxygen to patients with certain lung diseases?

Delivering high-flow oxygen to patients with certain lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can lead to carbon dioxide retention and respiratory acidosis. This occurs because many patients with these conditions rely on a lower level of oxygen in the blood to trigger their breathing drive. When high-flow oxygen is administered, it can diminish their respiratory drive, leading to reduced ventilation. As a result, carbon dioxide can accumulate in the blood, causing respiratory acidosis, a condition characterized by an imbalance in the body's acid-base status.

In patients with compromised respiratory function, it's essential to carefully manage oxygen levels to avoid this risk. This highlights the importance of tailored oxygen therapy, particularly in individuals with specific conditions where hypoxia plays a role in stimulating respiration. Understanding this risk helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about oxygen administration and monitoring for patients with lung diseases.