Just what is LUPUS...

[The Chairman]

and how does it affect diving? I have a prospective student (and good friend) who is contemplating an OW course with me. Yeah, I should go and call DAN, but you guys are so much cooler. Inquiring Instructors want to know!!! :tease:

 

[Scubaroo]

I'll let one of the docs give the full details, but it varies in it's effect on the afflicted, from mild to life threatening. Common symptoms include rheumatic arthritis, skin rashes, and UV sensitivity, although any organ of the body can be affected. *Generally* affects women worse than men in its severity of symptoms.

Shouldn't necessarily be a reason not to dive.

 

[DocVikingo]

A good orientation would be start with DAN's http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/medical/articles/article.asp?articleid=37 coverage of the topic.

If you have questions after that, come on back.

Best regards.

DocVikingo

 

[The Chairman]

but she said something about it affecting her lungs and her ability to breathe deeply, and that her doctor wanted her to hold off a month or more. That just confused the pediddle out of me. Diving is optional... living ain't!

 

[DocVikingo]

Fortunately, it is not serious in many cases, but in some can cause alveoli to inflame, swell, bleed & even die. And, the lung lining may become thickened/scarred.

These changes may be accompanied by chest discomfort & shortness of breath.

Best regards.

DocVikingo