What can an irregular breathing pattern (skip breathing) while diving potentially cause excess of?

An irregular breathing pattern, often referred to as "skip breathing," can lead to an excess of carbon dioxide in the body. This occurs because skip breathing involves holding the breath for longer intervals than is recommended during a dive. When divers fail to exhale sufficiently, the carbon dioxide produced by the body accumulates, leading to hypercapnia, which is an increase in carbon dioxide levels in the bloodstream.

During normal breathing, carbon dioxide is expelled with each exhalation, and maintaining a regular breathing rhythm helps to ensure that this physiological waste product is effectively removed from the body. If the body cannot eliminate carbon dioxide efficiently, it can lead to symptoms such as headaches, confusion, and impaired cognitive function, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

While nitrogen is taken up by the body based on depth and time during a dive, an irregular breathing pattern does not contribute to a harmful buildup of nitrogen directly. Oxygen levels might be affected by inadequate respiration, but in the context of this question, the primary concern with skip breathing is the retention of carbon dioxide. Thus, it is essential for divers to maintain a steady and regular breathing pattern to prevent potential risks associated with increased carbon dioxide levels.