What causes hypoxic symptoms during diving?

Hypoxic symptoms during diving are caused by too little oxygen in the body, which directly impacts the body’s ability to function properly. When divers breathe a gas mix that has an inadequate level of oxygen, their tissues and organs do not receive the necessary amount of oxygen to sustain normal physiological processes. This can lead to symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, and loss of consciousness, all of which are characteristic of hypoxia.

In contrast, while nitrogen and carbon dioxide play important roles in diving physiology, they are not the primary factors leading to hypoxia. Excessive carbon dioxide can cause its own set of problems, known as hypercapnia, and rapid ascent is often associated with decompression sickness rather than hypoxia. Understanding the importance of oxygen levels and ensuring an adequate mix is crucial for safety during dives.