Spontaneous Pneumothorax

[paulfries]

Hi Everyone,

I have recently registered for my PADI dive classes, and completed my self-study coursework. I begin the actual classes in a week.

In 1993 I had a Spontaneous Pneumothorax. I was 18 years old at the time (32 now). From what I understand, this happens to tall thin men. I am about 6'2 and at that time was very thin.

I am in excellent physical condition now, but I am worried that I will not be able to dive because of that past episode. I am hoping that someone out there has had experience with this..

Thanks in advance!

-Paul

 

[DocVikingo]

Hi Paul,

I suggest you start by reading the following:

By DAN
http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/medical/faq/faq.asp?faqid=36

By Scubadoc
http://www.scuba-doc.com/spntpnu.htm

If have additional questions, you may wish to post them under our Diving Medicine forum.

Regards,

DocVikingo

 

[knotical]

No relevant experience, but the Medical Statement found here: http://www.wrstc.com/downloads.php
indicates that a history of spontaneous pneumothorax is considered a “severe risk condition”. However, only a physician can determine your fitness for diving. Your instructor should give you that exact form to take to your physician.

 

[TSandM]

Paul,

Simple spontaneous pneumothorax is a pretty strong contraindication to diving. Usually, there is pathology in the underlying lung (blebs, or blister-like areas) which creates weak spots which are far more likely than normal lung to rupture. This would put a diver at very high risk for pneumothorax with any degree breath-holding at all, as the intrathoracic pressure increases.

Even to consider diving, I would highly recommend you undergo a good quality CT scan of your chest, to evaluate whether you have any obvious lung pathology. Even then, I think you should talk it over carefully with a diving-savvy pulmonologist.

Sorry to impart this information, but this is one of the high risk medical conditions.

 

[DepthCharge]

Well I had a spontaneous pneumo back in 1979. Started diving in 1987. Been diving ever since. no problems. (dives to 250ft+). Excellent advice to get checked out before you decide, but only you can decide if you're willing to take the risk.

 

[Wildcard]

I recently certed a guy who had a SPT just over a year ago. I have a letter from his doc clearing him, i have the section in the dive risks highlighted and signed by him and we spent a great deal of time talking about the risks. IMHO it's very high risk event but he realy wanted it and was willing to take that chance.

 

[Gene_Hobbs]

Vorosmarti J, Linaweaver PG (eds). Fitness to Dive. 34th Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society Workshop. UHMS Publication Number 70(WS-WD)5-1-87. Bethesda: Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society; 1987; 116 pages. RRR ID: 4249

 

[paulfries]

Thanks everyone. I go see my physician tomorrow. SHe is just a general practitioner, but I will ask to get referred out for a chest CT and a pulmonologist.

I have always wanted to dive, but I dont want to die doing it. Much less have another PT. Those hurt like crazy.

Anyway, thanks again for the info. I only hope I can get a chest CT in time for class.

 

[pickens_46929]

Thanks everyone. I go see my physician tomorrow. SHe is just a general practitioner, but I will ask to get referred out for a chest CT and a pulmonologist.

I have always wanted to dive, but I dont want to die doing it. Much less have another PT. Those hurt like crazy.

Anyway, thanks again for the info. I only hope I can get a chest CT in time for class.

Call Divers Alert and find a pulmonologist that is a diver or knows diving. They might be able to get you a name in and around your area. If not get a referral to a diving aware doctor that might know a diving aware pulmonologist.

Dave

 

[paulfries]

I had a chest x-ray today, and go in for a full CT on friday. Assuming it all comes back clear, I will start open water classes on May 12.

Even if it comes back clear, I am aware that I am at more risk that the general public of a recourrance... I think the risk is low enough though..