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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 06:39:56 +0200 (MET DST)
To: techdiver@aquanaut.com
From: Hans Petter Roverud <proverud@on*.no*>
Subject: re: oxygen/ nitrox breath-hold time
Carbon dioxide is the primary stimulus for breathing. However, there's also
some input and effect from oxygen sensors. Thus, a high PO2 will tend to
cause a reduced ventilation -- an effect that will be overridden by the CO2
stimulus in most subjects. Persons with lung permeability dysfunctions will
adapt to a high CO2 level in their blood and will move towards oxygen
monitoring rather than carbon dioxide monitoring. Typically, their breathing
pattern turns sporadic and irregular. 

Hopefully, we won't see emphysematic divers. However, we may see CO2
retainers -- those who have learnt to override the CO2 stimulus to some
extent. In the old days hard hat divers had to accept elevated CO2 since the
flushing of their suits was insufficient. Some seasoned sport divers strive
towards minimal gas consumption also. I think we've all witnessed the act of
comparing pressure gauges after a dive to decide who's got the lowest
consumption. 

If divers succeed in this arduous act of stupidity they may become CO2
retainers. If so, it's conceivable that they will in fact be able to boast
of a lower consumption at high PO2s, as well as topping the list of big
headaches and high risk of oxygen convulsion. 

There's something to be said for control of breathing underwater in the
sense of advocating a deep, slow pattern. But, don't push it too far -- some
people may get the idea that less is better.    

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