Lung Nodule..Is it safe to still dive?

[lilo]

Hi,

I've just been told by doctor that I have a lung nodule in my right lung. And within 3 months I will have to have another CT Scan to see if there any change in the nodule.

Would it still be safe for me to go diving? My nodule is small only 9mm.

Thanks!

Lilo:huh:

 

[Kray_Z]

sorry... when i first read this i thought it said noodle... i am not as knowledgeable about nodules as i am noodles GL with that!

 

[lilo]

jajaja its OK......thanks anyway

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi Lilo,

For starters, you'll want to be able to answer these questions:

Has the nodule weakened or otherwise compromised the lung tisue in its locale?

Is the nodule such that it could cause air trapping?

Regards,

DocVikingo

 

[lilo]

I called DAN and they advised me to have a spirometry test done and all came out fine. My doctor said it was safe me to go diving and gave me a copy of the results. When I read the report I saw that it stated I have "a mild decrease in diffusing capacity" and he never mentioned anything about it. Do know anything about this?

Kind regards,
Lilo

 

[TSandM]

Diffusing capacity is a measure of how readily gases can transit from the air sacs to the blood. It goes down with any kind of lung disease that decreases surface area for exchange (emphysema), thickens the membranes or decreases gas entry and exit into the small air sacs (chronic bronchitis). It can also decrease with age.

If you are perchance a smoker over the age of about 40, a decrease in diffusing capacity would be expected.

Most small lung nodules are benign, and following the lesion with serial CT scans is quite reasonable. The CT should also show if the nodule is in a position to cause any significant air trapping.

 

[lilo]

I quit smoking 13 years ago. Would it still be OK for me to dive knowing I have a "mild decrease in diffusing capacity"?

Thanks!

Lilo

 

[TSandM]

The answer is almost certainly yes. If you have a normal exercise tolerance, it should be fine.

 

[lilo]

yahoooo! Thanks everyone for your help and information!

Safe Diving!

Lilo