mothcatcher
New
- Messages
- 2
- Reaction score
- 0
can you scuba dive if you have astmha???
scuba diving with astmha
- Thread starter mothcatcher
- Start date
Please register or login
Welcome to ScubaBoard, the world's largest scuba diving community. Registration is not required to read the forums, but we encourage you to join. Joining has its benefits and enables you to participate in the discussions.
Benefits of registering include
- Ability to post and comment on topics and discussions.
- A Free photo gallery to share your dive photos with the world.
- You can make this box go away
NAUTICAL NOBLE
Guest
I also have a friend that had (has) that ...Has not had a attack since 7yo 30 now . Told him to see his doc on that.??? Sounds like a bad idea to me.......Skin diving seems the way to go .....with a buddy.......what do the docs here think?
large_diver
Contributor
Mothcatcher.
The answer is yes, under certain conditions and after getting approval from a doctor.
Use the search function on this board and you'll find a lot of useful information since this is a frequently discussed topic.
Hope this helps!
The answer is yes, under certain conditions and after getting approval from a doctor.
Use the search function on this board and you'll find a lot of useful information since this is a frequently discussed topic.
Hope this helps!
"Absolute contraindications to underwater activity include Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorders (COPD), any respiratory (breathing) and pulmonary (lung) disabilities, seizure disorders, insulin-dependent diabetes, diagnosed heart disease, and pregnancy. Individuals with these conditions should never dive, despite the advice or clearance of physicians who may not be completely aware of the physical processes and stresses of diving. While NAUI respects the opinions of all medical professionals, specialists in DIVING medicine support the view that conditions that may cause fits of coughing underwater, disrupt breathing, or lead to sudden incapacitation or unconsciousness totally disqualify persons from recreational diving." FROM: NAUI's "Scuba Rescue, skills and techniques" p. 5
"Asthma, the common term for the symptoms of "reactive airway disease," is a condition that disrupts normal inhalation and exhalation. It has many possible causes, from allergic reactions to airborne particles like dust, mold, and spores, to the breathing of cold air or exertion. Its effect is the inability to catch one's breath or exhale properly. During an asthma attack, a sufferer may cough excessively or choke, dramatically increasing the risk of lung overexpansion injury underwater. Airways literally swell and may close with the same outcome. A severe asthmatic attack can lead also to passing out as a result of lack of oxygen to the brain (hypoxia). Any of these events can be fatal underwater or can lead to panicked flight to the surface." from NAUI's "Scuba Rescue, skills and techniques" p. 8
Mothcatcher, just remember if someone with asthma were to dive and die they are not the only person affected. Diving is a great sport but it's not great enough to literally die for and cause your loved ones so much pain. I realize there are many kinds of asthma and some instructors may certify people who have certain types. My philosophy is on the bottom of my posts and when I get my instructor certification I will not certify divers who have contraindications. I would be heartbroken to hear that one of my divers had died whether they had a contraindication or not but if I certified a diver with a known contraindication that subsequently killed the diver then his/her blood is on my hands and my hands alone. (The legal issues would be a nightmare too)
I agree with Nautical Noble, go for the skin diving that's great fun too!
Ber
"Asthma, the common term for the symptoms of "reactive airway disease," is a condition that disrupts normal inhalation and exhalation. It has many possible causes, from allergic reactions to airborne particles like dust, mold, and spores, to the breathing of cold air or exertion. Its effect is the inability to catch one's breath or exhale properly. During an asthma attack, a sufferer may cough excessively or choke, dramatically increasing the risk of lung overexpansion injury underwater. Airways literally swell and may close with the same outcome. A severe asthmatic attack can lead also to passing out as a result of lack of oxygen to the brain (hypoxia). Any of these events can be fatal underwater or can lead to panicked flight to the surface." from NAUI's "Scuba Rescue, skills and techniques" p. 8
Mothcatcher, just remember if someone with asthma were to dive and die they are not the only person affected. Diving is a great sport but it's not great enough to literally die for and cause your loved ones so much pain. I realize there are many kinds of asthma and some instructors may certify people who have certain types. My philosophy is on the bottom of my posts and when I get my instructor certification I will not certify divers who have contraindications. I would be heartbroken to hear that one of my divers had died whether they had a contraindication or not but if I certified a diver with a known contraindication that subsequently killed the diver then his/her blood is on my hands and my hands alone. (The legal issues would be a nightmare too)
I agree with Nautical Noble, go for the skin diving that's great fun too!
Ber
OP
mothcatcher
New
- Messages
- 2
- Reaction score
- 0
Thanks ber rabbit for all that information, it was helpful. I just recently got back from the great barrier reef in australia and i fell in love with it , it was so beautiful under water. Unfortuatly I could only go snorkling, because of my astmha. I wanted to go back and try diving, but I guess i'll just have to stick with snorkling
- Messages
- 5,721
- Reaction score
- 473
Hi mothcatcher,
You may not want to throw in the scuba towel quite yet.
Like Large-Diver, I suggest you read threads on the topic from the board archives, such as this one--> http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1580&highlight=asthma, and then decide how you wish to proceed.
Best of luck.
DocVikingo
You may not want to throw in the scuba towel quite yet.
Like Large-Diver, I suggest you read threads on the topic from the board archives, such as this one--> http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1580&highlight=asthma, and then decide how you wish to proceed.
Best of luck.
DocVikingo
First let me stat that I am in no way shape or form a medical person.
There are some astma reactions that wont ever come underwater for the basic reason it doesnt have the neccesary factors for it to occur.
such as pollen (the reaction to when the trees and flowers spreads seeds) not shure if its the right word. but it will never happen underwater since the air we breathe is carefully filtered.
I have heard of divers who actually go dive during this season where one of the reasons they are doing it is they breathe better air.
I do not know where to take a stand on this subject though and since that is the case i would never recomend somewone with any type of respiratory disorder to dive.
This post is just to point out that there are many sides to take into consideration before one can say either way.
dive safe
There are some astma reactions that wont ever come underwater for the basic reason it doesnt have the neccesary factors for it to occur.
such as pollen (the reaction to when the trees and flowers spreads seeds) not shure if its the right word. but it will never happen underwater since the air we breathe is carefully filtered.
I have heard of divers who actually go dive during this season where one of the reasons they are doing it is they breathe better air.
I do not know where to take a stand on this subject though and since that is the case i would never recomend somewone with any type of respiratory disorder to dive.
This post is just to point out that there are many sides to take into consideration before one can say either way.
dive safe
From the YMCA SCUBA website.
YMCA SCUBA ASTHMATIC DIVER PROTOCOL
Dr. Duke Scott, Medical Adviser
The YMCA of the USA has been and continues to be dedicated to meeting the needs of all people, including those with disabilities, providing them with the opportunity to reach their fullest potential and enhancing the quality of their lives. In accordance with this philosophy, the YMCA scuba Program has been proud to assume the leadership role in dealing with disability issues as they apply to the diving community. YSCUBA has already developed successful programs for physically challenged and diabetic divers. After several years of study, research, and appropriate consultation, YSCUBA is now prepared to initiate a program which will allow qualified asthmatics to participate in YSCUBA training.
Asthma affects more than 14 million Americans. At least 75 percent of asthmatics demonstrate hypersensitivity to airborne allergens. Atopy, the genetic predisposition for the development of IgE antibodies to common allergens, is an accepted risk factor for asthma among children and adults. In addition to allergens, numerous activities, or exposures that precipitate or exacerbate episodes of asthma, have been identified. These "triggers" include viral infections, environmental pollutants, medications, foods, sustained exercise, cold, and emotional distress. Identification and avoidance of these allergens and triggers are important components of asthma management. They obviously are important in determining which asthmatics can safely participate in scuba training and scuba diving.
During the 1990's impressive strides were made in the management of asthmatic individuals. The reason for this is two-fold. First, there was the realization that asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease involving the lungs' bronchial tree. This changed the focus of treatment from symptomatic therapy to preventive therapy by utilizing medications that inhibit or reduce bronchial inflammation. Second, a multitude of anti-inflammatory drugs have been developed. These new drugs offer a prolonged period of action and therefore increased protection during periods of increased exertion, such as during scuba. These two factors have revolutionized the treatment of mild to moderate asthmatics. This allows us to approach asthmatics based on their level of function as opposed to their classification. That is, their ability to exercise is independent of whether or not their asthmatic condition requires medication for control.
In the third edition of Diving Medicine (1997), Dr. Tom S. Neuman discusses the case for and against asthmatic scuba divers. I found his case for allowing selective asthmatics to participate in scuba programs very compelling. I recommend that any of our YMCA instructors who contemplate teaching asthmatics to dive become familiar with his recommendations.
Dr. Neumann first discusses the studies and concepts that are most frequently used to argue against diving for asthmatics. He then explores these studies, showing how some of the results may have been misinterpreted. In fact, new studies are described that contradict some of the previous findings. Lastly, he reports on two recent symposia, attended by diving-medicine experts, which concluded that "asthma did not predispose to diving-related pulmonary barotrauma" and that "the limiting factor for asthmatics is adequate ventilatory capacity underwater."
In light of their conclusions, Dr. Neumann suggests that the research data to this point does not support the absolute banning of all asthmatics as diving candidates. Also, the diving community cannot ignore the excellent safety record of the many "closet" asthmatic divers in the United States and certified asthmatic divers of the British Sub-Aqua Club. The B.S.A.C. does not certify exercise-induced asthmatics. On the other hand, we cannot ignore the data that suggests the potential risk of barotrauma is greater in asthmatics. Still, it is obvious that asthmatics are a very heterogeneous group with varying degrees of respiratory difficulties. Therefore, as with diabetics, each asthmatic's eligibility for scuba training should be evaluated on his or her own merits.
Based on these findings, the YSCUBA Program recommends the following guidelines for determining which asthmatics are fit to participate in our scuba training programs. This protocol should be used by a potential asthmatic scuba student in consultation with his or her physician to determine eligibility for scuba training. Once accepted, the student must be closely monitored by the instructor. If the student's asthma becomes symptomatic during pool training or open-water dives, he or she must be dropped from the class and disqualified from further scuba training.
The YSCUBA Program began accepting qualified asthmatics as scuba students as of January 1, 2000. Initially, all potential asthmatic scuba students are required to receive clearance by the YSCUBA Medical Advisor prior to being accepted into an instructor's class. The reason for this is twofold. The first is to be sure that the student and YSCUBA are covered by our professional liability insurance. Our insurance will only cover us if the asthmatic meets the requirements set forth in the Protocol. Second, the YSCUBA training of asthmatics will be closely scrutinized by the other diving agencies as a whole. Therefore, we must monitor the progress of these individuals closely, not only during their training, but also during their entire diving experience. The data we accumulate will be utilized to confirm our position that select asthmatics are fit to dive. It will also be used to modify the Protocol as needed and to aid us in developing more effective teaching methods. Every instructor who chooses to teach asthmatics will be required to submit data concerning the students' response to scuba training. Every asthmatic student will be requested to periodically submit information concerning his or her diving activities. The necessary forms and method for reporting this information will be provided by the YSCUBA Medical Advisor. The YSCUBA instructor and/or the asthmatic student's physician should contact the YSCUBA Medical Advisor, Dr. Duke Scott, if they have any questions or problems concerning the use of the Protocol.
Duke Scott, M.D.
YSCUBA Medical Advisor
1606 Arrowhead Trail
Neptune Beach, FL 32266
Phone: (904) 246-0750
Fax: (904) 246-4947
Email: dr1313@aol.com
YMCA SCUBA ASTHMATIC DIVER PROTOCOL
Dr. Duke Scott, Medical Adviser
The YMCA of the USA has been and continues to be dedicated to meeting the needs of all people, including those with disabilities, providing them with the opportunity to reach their fullest potential and enhancing the quality of their lives. In accordance with this philosophy, the YMCA scuba Program has been proud to assume the leadership role in dealing with disability issues as they apply to the diving community. YSCUBA has already developed successful programs for physically challenged and diabetic divers. After several years of study, research, and appropriate consultation, YSCUBA is now prepared to initiate a program which will allow qualified asthmatics to participate in YSCUBA training.
Asthma affects more than 14 million Americans. At least 75 percent of asthmatics demonstrate hypersensitivity to airborne allergens. Atopy, the genetic predisposition for the development of IgE antibodies to common allergens, is an accepted risk factor for asthma among children and adults. In addition to allergens, numerous activities, or exposures that precipitate or exacerbate episodes of asthma, have been identified. These "triggers" include viral infections, environmental pollutants, medications, foods, sustained exercise, cold, and emotional distress. Identification and avoidance of these allergens and triggers are important components of asthma management. They obviously are important in determining which asthmatics can safely participate in scuba training and scuba diving.
During the 1990's impressive strides were made in the management of asthmatic individuals. The reason for this is two-fold. First, there was the realization that asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease involving the lungs' bronchial tree. This changed the focus of treatment from symptomatic therapy to preventive therapy by utilizing medications that inhibit or reduce bronchial inflammation. Second, a multitude of anti-inflammatory drugs have been developed. These new drugs offer a prolonged period of action and therefore increased protection during periods of increased exertion, such as during scuba. These two factors have revolutionized the treatment of mild to moderate asthmatics. This allows us to approach asthmatics based on their level of function as opposed to their classification. That is, their ability to exercise is independent of whether or not their asthmatic condition requires medication for control.
In the third edition of Diving Medicine (1997), Dr. Tom S. Neuman discusses the case for and against asthmatic scuba divers. I found his case for allowing selective asthmatics to participate in scuba programs very compelling. I recommend that any of our YMCA instructors who contemplate teaching asthmatics to dive become familiar with his recommendations.
Dr. Neumann first discusses the studies and concepts that are most frequently used to argue against diving for asthmatics. He then explores these studies, showing how some of the results may have been misinterpreted. In fact, new studies are described that contradict some of the previous findings. Lastly, he reports on two recent symposia, attended by diving-medicine experts, which concluded that "asthma did not predispose to diving-related pulmonary barotrauma" and that "the limiting factor for asthmatics is adequate ventilatory capacity underwater."
In light of their conclusions, Dr. Neumann suggests that the research data to this point does not support the absolute banning of all asthmatics as diving candidates. Also, the diving community cannot ignore the excellent safety record of the many "closet" asthmatic divers in the United States and certified asthmatic divers of the British Sub-Aqua Club. The B.S.A.C. does not certify exercise-induced asthmatics. On the other hand, we cannot ignore the data that suggests the potential risk of barotrauma is greater in asthmatics. Still, it is obvious that asthmatics are a very heterogeneous group with varying degrees of respiratory difficulties. Therefore, as with diabetics, each asthmatic's eligibility for scuba training should be evaluated on his or her own merits.
Based on these findings, the YSCUBA Program recommends the following guidelines for determining which asthmatics are fit to participate in our scuba training programs. This protocol should be used by a potential asthmatic scuba student in consultation with his or her physician to determine eligibility for scuba training. Once accepted, the student must be closely monitored by the instructor. If the student's asthma becomes symptomatic during pool training or open-water dives, he or she must be dropped from the class and disqualified from further scuba training.
The YSCUBA Program began accepting qualified asthmatics as scuba students as of January 1, 2000. Initially, all potential asthmatic scuba students are required to receive clearance by the YSCUBA Medical Advisor prior to being accepted into an instructor's class. The reason for this is twofold. The first is to be sure that the student and YSCUBA are covered by our professional liability insurance. Our insurance will only cover us if the asthmatic meets the requirements set forth in the Protocol. Second, the YSCUBA training of asthmatics will be closely scrutinized by the other diving agencies as a whole. Therefore, we must monitor the progress of these individuals closely, not only during their training, but also during their entire diving experience. The data we accumulate will be utilized to confirm our position that select asthmatics are fit to dive. It will also be used to modify the Protocol as needed and to aid us in developing more effective teaching methods. Every instructor who chooses to teach asthmatics will be required to submit data concerning the students' response to scuba training. Every asthmatic student will be requested to periodically submit information concerning his or her diving activities. The necessary forms and method for reporting this information will be provided by the YSCUBA Medical Advisor. The YSCUBA instructor and/or the asthmatic student's physician should contact the YSCUBA Medical Advisor, Dr. Duke Scott, if they have any questions or problems concerning the use of the Protocol.
Duke Scott, M.D.
YSCUBA Medical Advisor
1606 Arrowhead Trail
Neptune Beach, FL 32266
Phone: (904) 246-0750
Fax: (904) 246-4947
Email: dr1313@aol.com
Very informative post, hopefully it will help mothcatcher with a dive/don't dive decision. The outcome of the reports interests me although at this time I still won't consider certifying someone with a contraindication once I get my instructor rating. I know there are people out there with asthma, diabetes, etc. who dive. DAN was doing a research project on insulin dependent diabetics that a woman I met on a trip had participated in. What about pregnant women? That is really on my mind lately, I'm 33 and getting married and also getting my instructor rating. That's a lot of money to spend and then get pregnant and not be able to use your training for 9 months (at least). I will probably end up being 35 when I have my first child because of a desire to dive and teach diving. I would like to be able to teach the classroom and pool part while pregnant but am afraid to take the chance with my unborn child. Likewise I am afraid to take chances with the lives of others, I'm an emotional sort and as I said before would be horrified to learn of the death of ANY diver I certified. Such a tragedy would probably cause me to end my teaching career.
I'm not saying asthmatics should not dive, simply that I won't certify them. That YMCA program sounds like a very good place for someone with asthma to try if they decide they really do want to dive.
Ber
I'm not saying asthmatics should not dive, simply that I won't certify them. That YMCA program sounds like a very good place for someone with asthma to try if they decide they really do want to dive.
Ber
Similar threads
