What is a potential consequence of post-immersion collapse?

Post-immersion collapse refers to a phenomenon that can occur after a person has been submerged in water and then brought out, particularly after cold water immersion. One significant consequence of this situation is cardiac arrest.

When a person is immersed in water, especially cold water, various physiological changes occur, including the potential for hypothermia, which can lead to a dangerous drop in body temperature and affect heart functions. After they are pulled from the water, the body is suddenly exposed to warmer air, potentially causing a rapid change in heart rhythm and blood pressure. These stressors can overwhelm the heart and lead to lethal conditions, including cardiac arrest.

As for the other options, increased blood pressure is often not a primary outcome of post-immersion collapse; instead, blood pressure can fluctuate unpredictably. Improved lung function and enhanced circulation are not associated with post-immersion collapse, as the body may actually struggle to regain normal function after such a traumatic experience rather than improving in those areas.