Effects of lung volume and trigeminal nerve stimulation on diving response in breath-hold divers and non-divers

Purpose: This study investigated the effects of lung volume and trigeminal nerve stimulation (TS) on diving responses in breath-hold divers (BHDs) and non-divers (NDs). Methods: Eight BHDs and nine NDs performed four breath-hold trials at different lung volumes, with or without TS, and one trial of TS. Haemodynamic parameters and electrocardiograms were measured for each trial. Results: During the TS trial, the total peripheral resistance increased more in BHDs. Breath-hold performed at total lung capacity showed a more pronounced decrease in stroke volume and cardiac output in BHDs. The decrease in heart rate and increase in total peripheral resistance were more pronounced in BHDs when breath-holding was performed with TS. Conclusion: The more pronounced diving response in BHDs was attributed to the greater increase in total peripheral resistance caused by TS. Furthermore, the lower stroke volume and cardiac output in BH performed at total lung capacity could also cause a more pronounced diving response in BHDs.