What can excessive breathing resistance due to improperly maintained regulators cause?

Excessive breathing resistance due to improperly maintained regulators can lead to hypercapnia, which is an increased concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the bloodstream. When breathing becomes difficult, divers may not be able to exhale CO2 effectively, causing it to accumulate in the body. This buildup can result in symptoms such as confusion, headache, dizziness, and in severe cases, can impair cognitive function and lead to unconsciousness.

Maintaining regulators is crucial for facilitating normal gas exchange underwater. If the regulators are not functioning properly, divers may experience an increased work of breathing, which can elevate CO2 levels in the body. This is especially critical during exertion or at greater depths, where the effects of any stress on the respiratory system are magnified. Understanding the relationship between breathing mechanisms and gas levels in the body is essential for ensuring safety during dives.