Common signs and symptoms of CNS oxygen toxicity include?

CNS oxygen toxicity is a condition that can occur during hyperbaric oxygen therapy or when diving with enriched oxygen mixtures at high partial pressures. The symptoms arise primarily from the central nervous system being affected due to elevated oxygen levels, leading to excitatory effects on the brain.

Convulsions and twitching are characteristic signs of CNS oxygen toxicity because they indicate increased neuronal excitability and potential hyperactivity within the brain. The central nervous system is sensitive to variations in oxygen levels, and when exposed to high concentrations, one of the most significant risks is the onset of seizures. This can happen in divers who are breathing high partial pressures of oxygen, as it directly impacts brain function and can lead to convulsive episodes as the brain reacts to the toxicity.

The other choices involve symptoms that are not specifically associated with CNS oxygen toxicity. While they might occur in different contexts related to diving or general health concerns, they do not reflect the acute neurological signs seen in CNS oxygen toxicity cases. Understanding this is vital for recognizing the specific dangers of oxygen exposure at depth and taking appropriate precautions when involved in diving activities.