Various explanations have been put forward, including nitrogen narcosis, arterial gas embolism, and simple panic.

Finally, FeNO might have a potential in the diagnosis and monitoring of pulmonary gas embolism.

Diving can sometimes lead to air or gas embolism, according to the United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS).

It traditionally is known to treat things like carbon monoxide poisoning, air and gas embolism, burns and a whole lot of other issues.

This may rupture lung tissue (pulmonary barotrauma), which can lead to gas bubbles being released into the arterial circulation (arterial gas embolism).

In addition, victims of arterial gas embolism do not usually feel "out of air." More common responses are convulsions and almost instant unconsciousness.