What is hypercapnia, and how can it occur in divers?

Hypercapnia refers to a condition characterized by an excessive buildup of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the bloodstream. This condition can occur in divers for several reasons, primarily related to breathing gas management and the physical environment underwater.

When divers descend, they may breathe compressed air or other gas mixtures. Under certain circumstances, such as shallow diving or high workload, the body can experience an inability to expel CO2 effectively. This can occur due to inadequate ventilation of the lungs, improper use of scuba equipment (like rebreathers), or prolonged breath-holding. High levels of carbon dioxide in the blood can lead to respiratory acidosis, affecting the diver's ability to function and potentially resulting in serious health risks.

Understanding hypercapnia is crucial for divers, as recognizing and mitigating the risk factors associated with carbon dioxide buildup can help prevent its occurrence and ensure safer diving practices.