{"id":15420,"date":"2025-01-08T12:51:25","date_gmt":"2025-01-08T04:51:25","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/?p=15420"},"modified":"2025-01-08T12:51:25","modified_gmt":"2025-01-08T04:51:25","slug":"diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/","title":{"rendered":"Scuba Diving Descent Speed: What You Need to Know!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Scuba Diving Descent Speed: What You Need to Know!<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Scuba diving is a thrilling and captivating activity that offers an incredible opportunity to explore the mesmerizing underwater world. Yet, diving poses certain risks that must be effectively managed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. One critical aspect of scuba diving safety involves comprehending issues relating to diving descent speed and the techniques required to maintain ideal respiratory efficiency and avoid conditions like hypercapnia and narcosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, I will explain whether there&#8217;s a limit on how fast you can descend while scuba diving, describe why respiratory efficiency is a pivotal factor in safe diving, and how it can be influenced by the increased gas density experienced at greater depths. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, I will discuss practical tips and strategies that will help you maximize respiratory efficiency and promote a safer and more pleasant <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/what-is-diving-experience-diving-expertise\/\">diving experience<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, if you&#8217;re planning to go scuba diving or have an interest in learning more about diving safety and respiratory efficiency, keep reading to discover all the essential information you need to know about diving descent speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-transparent ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Article Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Is-there-a-maximum-limit-on-diving-descent-speed\" >Is there a maximum limit on diving descent speed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#What-effects-does-diving-descent-speed-have\" >What effects does diving descent speed have?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Diving-descent-speed-and-CO2\" >Diving descent speed and CO2<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Tips-for-reducing-CO2-before-the-descent\" >Tips for reducing CO2 before the descent<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Diving-descent-speed-and-gas-density\" >Diving descent speed and gas density<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#DAN-recommendations-on-gas-density-limit\" >DAN recommendations on gas density limit<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Scuba-diving-gas-density-table\" >Scuba diving gas density table<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Key-points-on-diving-descent-speed-and-CO2\" >Key points on diving descent speed and CO2<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Diving-descent-speed-and-hypercapnia\" >Diving descent speed and hypercapnia<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#What-are-the-symptoms-of-hypercapnia\" >What are the symptoms of hypercapnia?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Diving-descent-speed-and-narcosis\" >Diving descent speed and narcosis<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#What-is-CO2-narcosis\" >What is CO2 narcosis?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#How-severe-is-CO2-narcosis\" >How severe is CO2 narcosis?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#What-are-the-symptoms-of-CO2-narcosis\" >What are the symptoms of CO2 narcosis?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Why-is-CO2-narcosis-an-issue-in-scuba-diving\" >Why is CO2 narcosis an issue in scuba diving?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Key-points-on-diving-descent-speed-and-narcosis\" >Key points on diving descent speed and narcosis<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Setting-a-personal-diving-descent-speed\" >Setting a personal diving descent speed<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#About-The-Author\" >About The Author<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Purchase-my-exclusive-diving-ebooks\" >Purchase my exclusive diving ebooks!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#Scuba-diving-descent-speed-FAQ\" >Scuba diving descent speed FAQ<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is-there-a-maximum-limit-on-diving-descent-speed\"><\/span><strong>Is there a maximum limit on diving descent speed?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many scuba divers wonder if there&#8217;s a maximum speed at which you can descend while diving. The answer is no, at least until you reach the extreme depths where <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/high-pressure-nervous-syndrome-hpns\/\">High-Pressure Nervous Syndrome<\/a> (HPNS) and <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/compression-arthralgia\/\">compression arthralgia<\/a> become a concern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, diving descent speed can have an effect with respect to excess levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in a diver&#8217;s body. That, in turn, can cause issues with narcosis and hypercapnia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-2\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-1725454460\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2393012471\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-effects-does-diving-descent-speed-have\"><\/span>What effects does diving descent speed have?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Diving descent speed influences how quickly the pressure surrounding you increases. The rate at which ambient pressure increases has three effects:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The speed of CO2 pressure increase inside the body<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The time available to efficiently remove excess CO2<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Respiratory efficiency removing CO2 from the body<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Put simply, diving descent speed determines how quickly you get to depth. As you get deeper, the pressure of CO2 in your body increases, and your ability to remove CO2 decreases. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A slower descent speed affords more time to remove excess CO2 from your body before: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The pressure of CO2 in your body can spike to a level where it has negative effects on you. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Removing CO2 becomes difficult due to impaired respiratory efficiency.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diving-descent-speed-and-CO2\"><\/span>Diving descent speed and CO2<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The level of CO2 in the body will rise when a diver exerts themselves prior to descending. If the diver is breathing harder than normal, they will start their descent with an elevated level of CO2 in their tissues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the diver descends to greater pressure, the pressure of CO2 dissolved inside their body will also increase. Consequently, higher levels of CO2 in the body cause hypercapnia and have a stronger narcotic effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips-for-reducing-CO2-before-the-descent\"><\/span>Tips for reducing CO2 before the descent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some practical tips for reducing CO2 before you descend to depth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Stay horizontal on the surface:<\/strong> Staying in a vertical position on the surface creates a pressure differential between your mouth and diaphragm. This increases your work of breathing and can lead to CO2 retention. Instead, lay back horizontally in the water to get your chest at the surface and breathe deeply.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Perform a descent stop: <\/strong>It&#8217;s a good idea to briefly pause your descent at around 5m (16ft). Get into <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba-diving-techniques-hover\/\">horizontal trim<\/a> and neutral buoyancy to reduce your work of breathing. Breathe deeply and allow some time to catch your breath. This short stop permits excess CO2 to be removed from your body. Additionally, you can use this descent stop as an opportunity to <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/equalization-techniques-tips-scuba-diving\/\">equalize<\/a> your ears and check yourself and your <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/bad-dive-buddy-system-diving\/\">dive buddy<\/a> for gas leaks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Don&#8217;t descend if you are breathless. <\/strong>An increased rate of breathing indicates that your body is trying to remove excess CO2. Do not descend and further increase the pressure of CO2 inside your body. Slow down your descent, or stop completely, if you feel breathless.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By following these three simple strategies, you can minimize the effects of CO2 when you reach the bottom. That, in turn, reduces your risk of narcosis and hypercapnia. Remember to always take it slow and stay safe, and enjoy your diving experience to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-111-1-edited.jpg\" alt=\"A slow diving descent speed and minimizing exertion before descent prevents CO2-related problems when scuba diving.\" class=\"wp-image-21564\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-111-1-edited.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-111-1-edited-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-111-1-edited-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-111-1-edited-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Reduce exertion on the surface and slowly descend to avoid CO2-related issues at the outset of your dives.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diving-descent-speed-and-gas-density\"><\/span>Diving descent speed and gas density<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The density of our breathing gas increases as we dive deeper. Furthermore, it is understood that gas density is important in the efficiency with which we can remove CO2 from our bodies. Increasing gas density reduces our respiratory efficiency in exhaling CO2.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consequently, it becomes increasingly harder to get rid of CO2 as the depth increases, even if you&#8217;re resting and using appropriate breathing techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rapidly increasing breathing gas density by descending faster reduces the amount of time available to remove excess CO2 easily and efficiently. Regrettably, this is not commonly taught in scuba diving certification courses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DAN-recommendations-on-gas-density-limit\"><\/span>DAN recommendations on gas density limit<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Because of the proven link between CO2 retention and gas density in several scientific studies, the Divers Alert Network (DAN) has <a href=\"https:\/\/dan.org\/alert-diver\/article\/performance-under-pressure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">recommended maximum gas density limits<\/a> when diving:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Recommended <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/gas-density-diving-research-risks-recommendations\/\">maximum gas density<\/a>: <strong>5.2g\/L<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Absolute maximum gas density: <strong>6.2g\/L<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Diving descent speed determines how quickly our respiratory efficiency declines. On deeper dives, where gas density levels are near the limits, it is important to clear out excess CO2 before our bodies become inefficient in removing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gas density can be moderated by the <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/why-do-deep-divers-use-helium\/\">addition of helium to breathing gas mixtures<\/a>. Diving gases that contain helium are known as &#8216;trimix&#8217;. Divers who suffer from narcosis and hypercapnia should consider a <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/raid-deep-40\/\">recreational trimix course<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The recommended and absolute gas density depth limits for common scuba diving gasses are calculated in the table below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Scuba-diving-gas-density-table\"><\/span>Scuba diving gas density table<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-4-color has-palette-color-8-background-color has-text-color has-background mtr-table mtr-tr-td\" style=\"border-width:2px\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Gas\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong>Gas<\/strong><\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Surface density\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong>Surface density<\/strong><\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"RecommendedMax Depth\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong>Recommended<\/strong><br><strong>Max Depth<\/strong><\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Absolute Max\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong>Absolute Max<\/strong><\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"O2 MOD\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong>O2 MOD<\/strong><\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Gas\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong>Air<\/strong><\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Surface density\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">1.29g\/L<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"RecommendedMax Depth\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">30.4m<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Absolute Max\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">38.1m<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"O2 MOD\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">56m<\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Gas\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/why-use-nitrox-diving-advantages-benefits\/\">Nitrox<\/a> 28%<\/strong><\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Surface density\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">1.3g\/L<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"RecommendedMax Depth\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">30m<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Absolute Max\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">37.7m<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"O2 MOD\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">40m<\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Gas\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong>Nitrox 32%<\/strong> <\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Surface density\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">1.31g\/L<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"RecommendedMax Depth\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">29.8m<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Absolute Max\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">37.4m<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"O2 MOD\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">34m<\/div><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Gas\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\"><strong>Nitrox 40%<\/strong><\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Surface density\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">1.32g\/L<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"RecommendedMax Depth\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">29.3m<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"Absolute Max\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">30.9m<\/div><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center mtr-td-tag\" data-align=\"center\" data-mtr-content=\"O2 MOD\"><div class=\"mtr-cell-content\">25m<\/div><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Table illustrating max gas density depth limits for common diving gasses<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Use this <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/1AWCqII4lmexbC-zsN4-_56DVg06Wm31S\/view\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">simple gas density calculator<\/a><\/strong> to determine the maximum recommended depth for whatever mixture you will use on a dive. Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/gue.com\/blog\/density-discords-understanding-and-applying-gas-density-research\/\">understanding and applying gas density research<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key-points-on-diving-descent-speed-and-CO2\"><\/span>Key points on diving descent speed and CO2<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prevention is better than cure, so avoid over-exertion before diving and normalize respiration before descending<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The pressure of dissolved CO2 in the body increases as you descend<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Respiratory efficiency is degraded at depth due to increased gas density<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using air or nitrox can be problematic below ~30m due to a sharp increase in CO2 retention<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Follow DAN&#8217;s recommendations on maximum gas densities to prevent CO2 retention<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-3\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-2974684548\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6151212517\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diving-descent-speed-and-hypercapnia\"><\/span>Diving descent speed and hypercapnia<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Excess CO2 retention in the body is known as hypercapnia, which is essentially CO2 poisoning. I have explained how exertion before descending on a dive causes an increased amount of CO2 within the body. Furthermore, I have detailed how faster diving descent speed elevates CO2 retention through rapidly increasing ambient pressure and reduced respiratory efficiency at depth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-are-the-symptoms-of-hypercapnia\"><\/span>What are the symptoms of hypercapnia?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The symptoms of <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba-diving-co2-narcosis-and-hypercapnia\/\">hypercapnia<\/a> are dependent on severity, which is determined by the pressure of CO2 in your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The symptoms of mild hypercapnia are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Confusion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/scuba-diving-anxiety-and-co2-narcosis\/\">Anxiety<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Headache <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shallow breathing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flushed skin<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When hypercapnia becomes severe, the symptoms increase to include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wheezing and breathlessness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nausea and vomiting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seizures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loss of consciousness<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The early symptoms of hypercapnia, confusion, anxiety, and dizziness also describe the narcotic effect of CO2.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-141-edited.jpg\" alt=\"Narcosis immediately upon reaching the bottom is a sure sign of CO2 retention. Slow your diving descent speed.\" class=\"wp-image-21566\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-141-edited.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-141-edited-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-141-edited-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Andy-Davis-Sidemount-Diving-141-edited-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Narcosis immediately upon reaching bottom depth is a sure sign of CO2 retention. A slower diving descent speed is needed.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diving-descent-speed-and-narcosis\"><\/span>Diving descent speed and narcosis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Narcosis is a sedative-like condition that can affect divers during <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/deep-diver-courses\/\">deeper dives<\/a>. It&#8217;s essential to know that rapid onset narcosis during or after descent is typically caused by carbon dioxide (CO2), not nitrogen. <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/nitrogen-narcosis-sedation-consciousness\/\">Nitrogen narcosis<\/a> is much slower in onset and, on recreational-level dives, usually doesn&#8217;t have an effect until later in the dive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-CO2-narcosis\"><\/span>What is CO2 narcosis?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CO2 narcosis is a condition caused by too much carbon dioxide in the body. When we breathe in air, our body uses oxygen and produces CO2. Normally, we breathe out carbon dioxide easily through our lungs. However, when we are diving it is possible to retain too much CO2. Excess CO2 in the body reduces our level of consciousness. This, in turn, impairs our mental ability, judgment, and perceptions of the world around us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-severe-is-CO2-narcosis\"><\/span>How severe is CO2 narcosis?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s important to know that CO2 is 25x more narcotic than nitrogen. Even a small amount of hypercapnia will dramatically degrade mental functioning and reduce safety when diving. CO2 narcosis can develop very quickly because the gas is already present in our bodies as a product of metabolism. It does not have to be slowly absorbed over time as nitrogen does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-are-the-symptoms-of-CO2-narcosis\"><\/span>What are the symptoms of CO2 narcosis?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CO2 narcosis often starts with a feeling of uneasiness and can quickly turn into a panic attack. However, unlike nitrogen narcosis, it doesn&#8217;t cause pleasantly euphoric symptoms. A further sign of CO2 narcosis is feeling like we can&#8217;t breathe enough air, even when we try to breathe deeply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why-is-CO2-narcosis-an-issue-in-scuba-diving\"><\/span>Why is CO2 narcosis an issue in scuba diving?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CO2 narcosis is a particular issue in scuba diving because many divers don&#8217;t know about it. Most diving courses do not teach about CO2 narcosis and how it differs from nitrogen narcosis. The result of this is that most divers wrongly believe they suffer from nitrogen narcosis when, in reality, CO2 is the culprit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing the difference between CO2 narcosis and nitrogen narcosis is important. Primarily because CO2 narcosis can be avoided by minimizing exertion, using a slow diving descent speed, and limiting gas density on your dives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key-points-on-diving-descent-speed-and-narcosis\"><\/span>Key points on diving descent speed and narcosis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Exertion before descent increases CO2 in the body<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Descending increases the pressure of that CO2<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gas density increases with depth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Higher gas density reduces the ability to exhale CO2<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CO2 retention (hypercapnia) occurs as a result<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rapid onset narcosis after descent is caused by CO2, not nitrogen<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CO2 is 25x more narcotic than nitrogen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Setting-a-personal-diving-descent-speed\"><\/span>Setting a personal diving descent speed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While there&#8217;s no specific limit on the rate of descent, there are important factors to consider when it comes to your safety and comfort during a dive. By understanding the relationship between diving descent speed and the effects of CO2 narcosis and hypercapnia you can take steps to prevent respiratory issues and ensure a successful dive. Remember to take the time to normalize your respiration before diving and perform a descent stop to maximize CO2 removal before heading to depth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With this knowledge and these strategies in mind, you can dive with confidence and enjoy all the wonders that the underwater world has to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-content-justification-center is-layout-constrained wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium is-resized is-style-default\"><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/andy-davis-technical-diving\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"296\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-300x296.png\" alt=\"Andy Davis Technical Sidemount Wreck Diving Subic Bay Philippines RAID Courses Training\" class=\"wp-image-6812\" style=\"width:225px;height:222px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-300x296.png 300w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-1024x1009.png 1024w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1-768x757.png 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Cartoon-Andy-900x900-1.png 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-constrained wp-block-column-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About-The-Author\"><\/span>About The Author<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"274\" height=\"77\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-27046\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1.png 274w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/bmc-button-1-1-250x70.png 250w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 274px) 100vw, 274px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/andy-davis-technical-diving\/\">Andy Davis<\/a> is a <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/raid-diving-courses-philippines\/raid\/\">RAID<\/a>, PADI TecRec, ANDI, BSAC, and SSI-qualified independent <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/what-is-technical-diving\/\">technical diving<\/a> instructor who specializes in teaching <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/sidemount-courses\/\">sidemount<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/technical-diving-courses\/\">trimix<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/technical-diving-courses\/\">advanced wreck<\/a> diving courses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Currently residing in <a href=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/subic-bay-wreck-diving-sites\/\">Subic Bay, Philippines<\/a>; he has amassed more than 10,000 open-circuit and CCR dives over three decades of challenging diving across the globe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Andy has published numerous diving magazine articles and designed advanced certification courses for several dive training agencies, He regularly tests and reviews new dive gear for scuba equipment manufacturers. Andy is currently writing a series of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/extras\">advanced diving books <\/a>and creating a range of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redbubble.com\/people\/andydavistech\/shop\">tech diving clothing and accessories<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prior to becoming a professional technical diving educator in 2006, Andy was a commissioned officer in the Royal Air Force and has served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Belize, and Cyprus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2023, Andy was named in the &#8220;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/gue.com\/blog\/sidemount-andy-davies\/\" target=\"_blank\">Who&#8217;s Who of Sidemount<\/a>&#8221; list by GUE InDepth Magazine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-palette-color-7-color has-vivid-red-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-dd81a6de961563c5bf17302e4376cbd2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Purchase-my-exclusive-diving-ebooks\"><\/span>Purchase my exclusive diving ebooks!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233191\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Gas Management For Scuba Divers Book\" class=\"wp-image-26264\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Gas-Management-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/233171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Become A Shearwater Power User Book\" class=\"wp-image-26382\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-978x1536.jpg 978w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook-95x150.jpg 95w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Shearwater-Gradient-Factors-ebook.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/111242\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-26656\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/COVER-IMAGE.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/262907\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A Comprehensive Guide to Backplate &amp; Wing BCDs\" class=\"wp-image-26808\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/BPW-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/buymeacoffee.com\/andydavistech\/e\/260377\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Diving Psychology The Path to Proficiency: Mental Strategies for Scuba Divers (eBook)\" class=\"wp-image-26633\" srcset=\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-652x1024.jpg 652w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-768x1206.jpg 768w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image-96x150.jpg 96w, https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Path-To-Proficiency-Book-Cover-Image.jpg 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"scuba-b4-h2-4\" style=\"margin-top: 10px;margin-bottom: 10px;\" id=\"scuba-1423468595\"><div class=\"scuba-adlabel\">Sponsored Link<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-9354033900485448\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-9354033900485448\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2954736365\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"false\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Scuba-diving-descent-speed-FAQ\"><\/span>Scuba diving descent speed FAQ<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682662861394\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How fast can you descend when diving?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">There is no recommended limit for descent speed when diving. However, fast descents can exacerbate hypercapnia and CO2 narcosis.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682662882354\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is a safe diving descent rate?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A scuba diver should set a descent rate that they are comfortable with. Slower descents reduce the likelihood of CO2 narcosis and hypercapnia.<br \/><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682662901081\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Why do divers descend slowly?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Scuba divers descend slowly to reduce the risk of hypercapnia and CO2 narcosis; which can be exacerbated by a swift increase in pressure and breathing gas density.<br \/><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682662919233\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do fast descents on a dive cause narcosis?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Fast descents can lead to a rapid spike in CO2 levels within the body. CO2 is 25x more narcotic than nitrogen and very fast in effect.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682662953912\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the max descent rate for scuba diving?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">There is no maximum descent rate for diving. Scuba divers should set their own maximum descent speed to avoid the effects of hypercapnia and CO2 narcosis.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682662979425\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the recommended gas density limits in scuba diving?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">DAN recommends an ideal limit of 5.2g\/L, and 6.2g\/L as an absolute maximum limit. This equates to 31m (101&#8242;) and 38m (125&#8242;) if diving with air.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1682663004552\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Why do I feel narcosis immediately after descending?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Rapid onset narcosis during or after descent on a scuba dive is usually caused by CO2. Avoid this by not exerting on the surface and reducing your diving descent speed.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n<p id=\"rop\"><small>Originally posted 2023-03-24 20:14:29. <\/small><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This article has everything that you were never taught about scuba diving descent speed! What effects and issues does the descent rate have?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":21575,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1825],"tags":[1611,804,1267,1607,1606,1609,1608,821,306,1610,26],"class_list":["post-15420","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-scuba-diving-safety","tag-anxiety-when-diving","tag-co2-issues-in-scuba-diving","tag-co2-narcosis","tag-diving-descent-rate","tag-diving-descent-speed","tag-gas-density-in-diving","tag-hypercapnia","tag-hypercapnia-in-scuba-diving","tag-inert-gas-narcosis-diving","tag-narcosis-after-descending","tag-scuba-diving-descent-techniques"],"blocksy_meta":{"styles_descriptor":{"styles":{"desktop":"","tablet":"","mobile":""},"google_fonts":[],"version":6}},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Scuba Diving Descent Speed: What You Need to Know!<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"This article has everything that you were never taught about scuba diving descent speed! 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RAID, PADI, TecRec, SSI and BSAC qualified technical diving instructor. Subic Bay, Philippines. 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However, fast descents can exacerbate hypercapnia and CO2 narcosis.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#faq-question-1682662882354\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#faq-question-1682662882354\",\"name\":\"What is a safe diving descent rate?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A scuba diver should set a descent rate that they are comfortable with. 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CO2 is 25x more narcotic than nitrogen and very fast in effect.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#faq-question-1682662953912\",\"position\":5,\"url\":\"https:\/\/scubatechphilippines.com\/scuba_blog\/diving-descent-speed-co2-narcosis-gas-density\/#faq-question-1682662953912\",\"name\":\"What is the max descent rate for scuba diving?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"There is no maximum descent rate for diving. 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