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. -- Send mail for the `techdiver' mailing list to `techdiver@aquanaut.com'. Send subscribe/unsubscribe requests to `techdiver-request@aquanaut.com'.
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