What is the effect of excessive oxygen therapy on COPD patients?

Excessive oxygen therapy in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can lead to respiratory acidosis and carbon dioxide retention, making this the correct answer. In COPD, patients often have a compromised ability to eliminate carbon dioxide due to impaired lung function. When high levels of oxygen are administered, it can diminish their respiratory drive—a phenomenon known as hypoxic drive—where the body relies on low oxygen levels to trigger breathing. As a result, excessive oxygen can cause carbon dioxide to accumulate, leading to respiratory acidosis, where the blood becomes too acidic due to elevated levels of carbon dioxide.

Understanding this effect is crucial for managing oxygen therapy in COPD patients, as inappropriate levels of oxygen can significantly worsen their condition. This underscores the importance of careful monitoring and individualized treatment approaches in managing oxygen therapy to prevent complications associated with carbon dioxide retention.