What is a potential consequence of divers hyperventilating?

Hyperventilating causes a significant decrease in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the blood. This state often leads to respiratory alkalosis, which can reduce the body's urge to breathe despite lower levels of oxygen. When a diver hyperventilates, they may feel fine initially, but as CO2 levels drop, they might experience a lack of proper oxygen delivery to critical tissues, including the brain. This reduction can lead to shallow water blackout, where the diver loses consciousness underwater without any warning, resulting from insufficient oxygen supply. Understanding this physiological impact is crucial for divers to recognize the dangers associated with hyperventilation, emphasizing the need for proper breathing techniques during diving practices.