Nitrox + Asthma = Question?

[large_diver]

Thanks.

A few more clarifying questions:

(1) So given that O^2 is denser than Nitrogen, does this mean that Nitrox actually INCREASES breathing effort vs. air?

(2) Assuming the answer to question #1 above is yes, perhaps there are some concerns here for asthmatics considering Nitrox usage...or perhaps the increase in breathing effort is small enough to present minimal additional risk...?

-Chris

 

[Saturation]

large_diver once bubbled...
Thanks.

A few more clarifying questions:

(1) So given that O^2 is denser than Nitrogen, does this mean that Nitrox actually INCREASES breathing effort vs. air?

(2) Assuming the answer to question #1 above is yes, perhaps there are some concerns here for asthmatics considering Nitrox usage...or perhaps the increase in breathing effort is small enough to present minimal additional risk...?

-Chris

Hi C:

#1: YES, strictly speaking.

#2: A concern for asthmatics is theoretical, that is the use of adrenergic drugs and high pp02. There are no reports of oxtox on recreational nitrox.

The increase in breathing effort is inconsequential in recreational diving for asthmatics or normal people.

Nitrox is of some benefit to asthmatics as we know the air used for mixing is extra filtered ... if asthma is allergy related for example, nitrox-grade is usually CGA Grade-E Modified, which filters particles greater than 2u in size, and pollen grains are about 10u.

http://www.naui.org/ethics/NAUIAffiliateCodeOfEthics.html#ModGradeE