To maintain the pH balance in the blood, the lungs must be able to “blow off” the CO 2 that is produced by the body. 1 The change in the pH of the blood is sensed by the brain and serves as the trigger to stimulate breathing. The CO 2 combines with the water in the blood to form carbonic acid (which dissociates as hydrogen and bicarbonate ions). Of these two processes, the exhalation of CO 2 is actually the main driver of breathing. The lungs’ most important function is to facilitate gas exchange: supplying oxygen to the bloodstream and extracting and exhaling carbon dioxide (CO 2). Thus it is important that divers know what limitations to pulmonary function occur while diving. Lung conditions are among the most common reasons people fail diving medical examinations - and of course we depend on our lungs for survival. Diving imposes significant challenges to the respiratory system.
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