Asthma and scuba diving may appear contradictory. A person having asthmatic problems should not be advised to perform scuba diving. It is not sure when he or she will be under “asthma attack” that can jeopardise their life. Though it may be the condition, an outright rejection of asthmatic patients to conduct scuba diving is not factually correct. The scuba diving facilities in Kerala and around the world do not prevent scuba diving of persons affected with asthma. A detailed analysis of asthma and scuba diving may be necessary before we conclude whether Asthmatic person can perform Scuba Diving.
Asthma
Asthma is a common medical condition in India. As much as 10% (approx.) of adults in the country suffer from Asthma. The patients under asthma attack will face extreme difficulties in breathing due to the contraction of air passages.
Specific allergens, cold, physical condition or atmospheric changes can cause an asthma attack. Being the case, the cold conditions underwater may also be problematic. Read on to find out how a person with asthma can perform scuba diving.
Why is it complicated?
The pressure exerted by water is directly proportional to the depth, i.e. it increases with increase in depth. The scuba diver’s body, breathing apparatus and associated equipment will be subjected to this increase in pressure. This can also compress the air tubes and may require the diver to apply more strength to inhale the required quantity of Oxygen.
The scuba diver under asthma attack will already have a contracted air passage. In addition to the condition of compressed air tubes and breathing apparatus as said in the previous paragraph. The effect of both the issues combined will be alarming.
Besides, the above-mentioned problem while diving, another problem awaits the scuba diver while ascending. The water pressure on the body reduces as the driver comes up. This can result in the expansion of air that is trapped in the lungs. However, as the diameter of the air passage is in reduced condition due to an asthma attack, the condition can lead to fatal outcomes.
Is it prohibited for Asthmatic Persons to Scuba Dive?
Scuba diving in Kerala is becoming popular day by day. Every reputed scuba diving centre will have specialist diving experts. They will examine the medical records, past ailments, present medical condition, medicine being consumed etcetera towards ascertaining the vulnerability of the asthmatic person.
A physical examination is also necessary to identify the possibilities of an asthma attack during dive. It is suicidal to undertake scuba dive without medical examination and expert opinion on the same by an experienced doctor.
A person will not be prohibited from diving only for the reason that he or she is asthmatic. The decision will depend on detailed examination and the doctor’s assessment. The person with serious asthma issues may be prevented from scuba diving. However, minor asthmatic problems may not cause hindrance in scuba diving.
The physician on the diving doctor may prescribe certain tests too before allowing you to conduct scuba dive. The tests are namely exercise tests, bronchial agitation test, peak flow test and post bronchial dilator test.
Scuba Diving and Asthma
You may perform scuba diving if you are confident and the diving doctor allows you to do so. The physical and mental strength of the person matters a lot in most of the scenarios. You should not be tense with the thought that you are asthmatic. It will increase the chances of an asthma attack. Further, you will not be able to enjoy the scuba dive. Better to avoid scuba diving if you have serious asthmatic issues.
Scuba diving is an adventurous and thrilling sports event. Understanding the growing passion for scuba diving, many scuba dive centres have been opened around the country. Scuba diving in Kerala is also popular nowadays.
With the support of scuba diving instructors, qualified doctors and guidance from experienced professionals, any person can try scuba diving. Your physical problems should not hamper the joy of scuba diving. Be confident, however, never neglect the warnings from professionals. Perform scuba diving responsibly so that you and your family enjoy it fully.
Professional scuba diving agencies like Bond Safari in Kerala have expert professionals to guide you. And make your scuba diving experience a memorable one for your entire lifetime.
