Truth About Apnea and the Exchange of Gases in the Lungs   

Breathing is an important process involved in life.  When a human breathes they are bringing oxygen to their whole body while also removing carbon dioxide from the body.  Unfortunately, when someone suffers from apnea, the muscles that are involved in breathing are not working correctly, so the exchange of gases to and from the body is not as efficient. 

Even though breathing is an automatic mechanism of the body, when apnea occurs there is a cessation in the normal breathing patterns, which can result in a higher than normal amount of carbon dioxide in the blood stream.  When the levels become too high, many of the body’s system systems do not work as efficiently as they should.  In some instances, even when apnea is present, the body will still be able to exchange the oxygen and carbon dioxide.   

If this exchange does not happen, in a minute or two the need for oxygen becomes emergent.  The body can last three to four minutes without this exchange, and if the exchange of gases is not restored, the body including the brain will begin to become damaged.  After several minutes, death is likely. 

Deadly Mistakes 

There are many misconceptions about apnea in general.  It is often thought that voluntary apnea is acceptable as long as someone takes a deep breath before holding their breath.  They think that they can last for a long time, but the body does not hold onto additional oxygen.   

Even if you take a large breath before diving into water, carbon dioxide will begin to build up in the blood, so it is important not to hold your breath for any longer than is comfortable. 

It is important to understand that it is not so much the lack of oxygen that causes problems with voluntary apnea; it is the build up of carbon dioxide.  The result is often shallow water drowning, which occurs when a diver has a build up of carbon dioxide that is so great that they lose consciousness and drown even when in really shallow water. 

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