Final answer:
Hypoventilation leads to hypercapnia, causing vasodilation and potentially an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP).
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypoventilation, which is characterized by reduced breathing rate and depth, leads to increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, a condition known as hypercapnia. Hypercapnia causes vasodilation, not constriction. The dilated vessels in the brain due to hypercapnia can lead to an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP). This could potentially be harmful as it may result in decreased cerebral perfusion and possible damage to brain structures.