What is the primary risk associated with Nitrox diving compared to air diving?

The primary risk associated with Nitrox diving compared to air diving is related to the saturation of oxygen in the body. Nitrox is a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen, with a higher percentage of oxygen than that found in normal air (which is approximately 21% oxygen). When diving with Nitrox, especially with higher oxygen mixes, divers increase their exposure to elevated partial pressures of oxygen. This can lead to oxygen toxicity, particularly at deeper depths where the partial pressure of oxygen increases.

Oxygen toxicity can manifest as various symptoms, ranging from mild effects like visual disturbances and nausea to severe consequences such as seizures, which can be life-threatening underwater. Therefore, understanding and managing the oxygen levels in Nitrox mixtures is crucial to avoid this risk. This highlights the importance of appropriate training and adherence to depth limits when using Nitrox for diving.