Diving after pneumothorax

[stevel97]

Had a severe illness a few years back that caused a pneumothorax. Pulmonologist who treated me said no more diving due to a higher likelihood of another pneumothorax occurring.

Are there specialists who can run tests to see if diving is possible again (with an "acceptable" level of risk)? Or should I just give up on the notion and sell my gear.

 

[Doctorfish]

For sure. There are many reasons that people might develop a pneumothorax but in general those that leave bulli or large air cavities in the lung would be most likely to preclude future diving. Air trapping diseases like asthma would also be contraindications for diving. A good respirologist should be able assess risk by history, pulmonary function tests, and a CT of the lungs.

Don't sell your gear yet.

don't give up yet.

 

[stevel97]

I think if it’s risk based on history, I think most doctors would immediately tell me to sell my gear.

I was wondering if there are doctors that specialize in assessing risk based on tests that are better suited to evaluate one’s fitness to dive.

 

[Marie13]

@Duke Dive Medicine

 

[Duke Dive Medicine]

Had a severe illness a few years back that caused a pneumothorax. Pulmonologist who treated me said no more diving due to a higher likelihood of another pneumothorax occurring.

Are there specialists who can run tests to see if diving is possible again (with an "acceptable" level of risk)? Or should I just give up on the notion and sell my gear.

Hi @stevel97 ,

What was the illness, and what does your pulmonologist think caused the pneumothorax?

Best regards,
DDM

 

[Nugget1412]

Personally, I would not rush to sell my gear, I also would not rush back to the water. The risk/ benefit is going to be between you, your health care providers, and your family. I also had a tension pneumo years ago and still dive currently. Mine however, was trauma not from illness so there could be some differences there for your doc to figure out.

 

[stevel97]

Thanks @Marie13 for the referral.

@Duke Dive Medicine , sent you a DM

 

[Macfod]

I fell and punctured my lung a few years ago..doc said take six months off, which I did before diving again..
panic first dive trip after as my bcd inflator jammed and my eyes widened at the thought of hitting the surface. luckily my buddy wife just pulled connector out and panic over