Dry Air Agitation

[SM Diver]

How many people are sensitive to the dry nature of compressed air? I heard there is a regulator that humidifies the air before it is breathed. Has anyone bought such a regulator?

 

[nickjb]

I found that I got a very dry throat when I started diving. It doesn't seem to be a problem anymore. I suppose its one of the many things that I have got used to.

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi Tampascott,

.... may wish to consider. As you can see, some are cheaper than others, so you might wish to experiment before buying a special reg/moisturizing filter:

1. Purchase a reg with "moisturizing fins" in the second stage, such as the Oasis & Blizzard made by Sherwood.

2. Purchase the Apollo reg which has a "moisturizing chamber" into which you place a small, damp sponge. Or, an Apollo Biofilter http://www.apollosportsusa.com/biofilter-info.html.

3. Purchase a "Scuda," or a "Camel-back," nifty little diver's canteens which allow you a squirt of fresh water when you want it.

4. Pop a "Jolly Rancher," "Tic-Tac," or the like into your mouth before you enter, but tuck it between your gum & cheek to prevent choking on it.

5. Tickle the roof of your mouth with your tongue, or run it along your teeth, as this will trigger salivation.

6. Rub a very small bit of toothpaste in your mouthpiece prior to entry.

7. Make sure you stay very well hydrated during the entire dive trip.

8. Take a long, cool, drink just before entering the water.

Best regards.

DocVikingo

 

[tchil01]

Originally posted by DocVikingo
1. Purchase a reg with "moisturizing fins" in the second stage, such as the Oasis & Blizzard made by Sherwood.

2. Purchase the Apollo reg which has a "moisturizing chamber" into which you place a small, damp sponge. Or, an Apollo Biofilter http://www.apollosportsusa.com/biofilter-info.html.

Doc, Great answer... There were some things I had never heard of and will try.

My question is, do these moisturizing regs really work? I looked at them, but didn't buy one. Do they really make a difference?

Ty

 

[devilfish]

Originally posted by DocVikingo
Hi Tampascott,

7. Make sure you stay very well hydrated during the entire dive trip.

8. Take a long, cool, drink just before entering the water.

DocVikingo

# 7 & 8 work very well. Very important to be well hydrated, reduces bubble trouble and dry mouth.

 

[Welshman]

Tampascott

I'd agree with devilfish on the low cost solutions to your problem.

regards

 

[Spectre]

Originally posted by tchil01

My question is, do these moisturizing regs really work? I looked at them, but didn't buy one. Do they really make a difference?

I don't have a moisturizing reg, but I noticed a _huge_ difference between my old and new reg. I was diving with a Mares Axis, and I would go through about a liter of water after every dive trying to get the burn out of my throat. Dives over 20 minutes also became a little distracting with the burn.

I bought a Apeks ATX-50, and I didn't think anything of it on my first dive with the reg [because I was fighting with my computer the whole time]. Half way home I reached for my bottle of water to take a sip and I realized that I hadn't drank anything since I got out. Absolutely no dry-air burn. It's been wonderful ever since!

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi Ty,

I've tried all the regs & moisturing contraptions that I mentioned. They all seemed to help somewhat, although none really banished dryness.

If you're really getting parched, nothing relieves as well as the "Scuda" or "Camel-back."

Best regards.

DocVikingo

 

[Uncle Pug]

Originally posted by devilfish
# 7 & 8 work very well. Very important to be well hydrated, reduces bubble trouble and dry mouth.

...insert a plug for a P-valve...

no no....

I mean to put in a plug for a p-valve...

shoot....

I mean to suggest that you get a p-valve

whew, there...

A p-valve will solve your dry mouth problem...

Oh boy....

I mean it will allow you to stay hydrated...

hmmm....

what I mean is that folks avoid hydration when they know they are not going to be able to relieve themselves so installing a p-valve in your suit will allow you to do # 7 & 8 with impunity... infact you might even find yourself over hydrating just to enjoy the bliss of...

Ah.... I better stop and go get another latte...

 

[SM Diver]

Thanks for all those great suggestions. I think I am going to try that appolo bio-filter. I'll also incorporate all of the other suggestions by Doc. This board is a great resource. Good weekend to all.

Scott
Tampa