What is a common consequence of gas narcosis displayed by divers?

Gas narcosis, often referred to as "the bends" or "inert gas narcosis," is a condition that divers experience as they descend to greater depths, particularly when breathing gases that contain nitrogen. One of the hallmark symptoms of gas narcosis is a short attention span. As nitrogen becomes more soluble in the body at depth, it starts to affect the central nervous system, leading to impaired cognitive function. This results in divers being unable to concentrate on complex tasks, follow dive plans accurately, or even recognize dangerous situations.

In the context of a dive, having trouble focusing or maintaining attention can lead to serious consequences, as divers may overlook essential safety protocols or fail to respond appropriately to changing underwater conditions. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for divers; understanding that gas narcosis can significantly impair their ability to think clearly highlights the importance of staying within safe limits and monitoring one's own mental state during a dive.

The other options do not reflect typical experiences associated with gas narcosis. While some divers might exhibit changes in behavior, such as increased energy levels or situational awareness, these cannot be relied upon as consistent or accurate consequences of narcosis. Instead, the identifiable effects are often detrimental to safety and clarity of thought,