As a diving instructor, I have met many people who love diving but are not sure if they can dive because of their health condition. One of the most common conditions is asthma. If you have asthma, you may have thought “Is it safe to scuba dive?”. I would love to say yes or no very simply, but it is not that simple. Let’s explain in detail what asthma means and how to stay safe while diving.
What is Asthma?
First, let’s understand what asthma is. The airways connected to our lungs sometimes become inflamed or narrowed, which can make breathing difficult. These constrictions can be caused by inflammation, excess mucus buildup or muscle tightness. These narrowed airways can cause asthma attacks.
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Wheezing (whistling sound when breathing).
- Feeling of tightness in the chest.
- Coughing
What triggers asthma varies from person to person. Exercise, cold air, stress or allergens such as dust and pollen are among the most common triggers – things that divers may also encounter.
Let’s look at the diving environment. Breathing dry, compressed air is different from breathing on the surface. And given that the aquatic environment is 800 times denser than the air environment, pressure changes and physical challenges can increase the risk of complications for people with asthma.
These risks do not mean that anyone with asthma cannot scuba dive, but they do mean that extra caution should be exercised.
Can You Dive If You Have Asthma?
First of all, I would like to state the following. I am not a doctor. I am a diving instructor. I am writing this article based on my own readings, the experiences of my divers who have asthma and are actively diving, and the knowledge of my doctor friends whom I consulted for a long time before writing the article. For this reason, if you contact a dive center or me before you start diving and go through your doctor’s control with a Medical Declaration Form that we use in diving, you will answer the question marks in your mind.
Whether you can dive with asthma depends on the condition of your asthma and how well it is controlled. If your asthma is stable and you have not had any recent problems, diving may be an option. Here are the factors you should pay attention to.
Control is Important
If your asthma causes frequent attacks or symptoms, diving is not safe. However, if you do not experience symptoms for months or even years and have no problems during exercise, you may be able to dive.
Medical Approval
Before diving, consult a doctor who is familiar with diving medicine. The doctor will assess your lung function and determine whether it is safe for you to dive. Tests such as spirometry (tests that measure your lung capacity) are often used for this assessment.
Exercise and endurance
Diving is not an intense sport, but it requires physical effort. If your asthma is triggered by exercise, you should review this before diving.
Tips for Safe Diving If You Have Asthma
If you have been confirmed fit to dive, here are the precautions you should take to stay safe underwater.
Use an inhaler before diving
Many divers with asthma use a bronchodilator (e.g. albuterol) 20-30 minutes before diving. This opens your airways and reduces symptoms.
Prefer Easy Diving Conditions
Warm and calm waters are ideal for asthma sufferers. Avoid cold water, strong currents or strenuous diving.
Breathe Regularly
It is very important to breathe slowly and regularly underwater. Holding your breath or skip breathing to save air can damage your lungs.
Know Your Limits
If you feel a slight tightness in your chest or shortness of breath before the dive, do not push the dive. It is better to skip a dive than risk your health.
Stay Calm
Stress and anxiety can trigger asthma, so focus on staying calm and controlled underwater. Keep a good buoyancy check to avoid unnecessary exertion.
Asthma does not automatically disqualify you from scuba diving, but it does require extra caution. Know your body, manage your condition and dive within your limits. With the right approach and planning, many asthma patients can safely explore the underwater world.
As an instructor, I am here to help you overcome these challenges and make informed decisions. If you have questions about diving with asthma, consult a dive doctor or talk to your instructor. Remember, with the right planning you can have an unforgettable diving experience.
Do you have asthma diving experiences or questions? Share in the comments – I’d love to hear your stories!
Stay Safe
