An irregular breathing pattern (skip breathing) while diving can possibly cause what condition?

An irregular breathing pattern known as skip breathing can lead to an excess of carbon dioxide in the body. This occurs because when a diver does not breathe completely or skips breaths, carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of metabolism, is not adequately expelled from the lungs. This buildup of carbon dioxide can lead to respiratory acidosis and other complications, such as impaired mental function, increased heart rate, and other physiological effects that can negatively impact a diver's safety.

This condition highlights the importance of maintaining a proper and consistent breathing pattern while diving. Regular and deep breathing ensures that the body efficiently exchanges gases, minimizing the risk of carbon dioxide buildup, while supporting the adequate supply of oxygen to the tissues.