Is it safe to SCUBA dive with asthma?

Area of Science:

• Diving Medicine
• Pulmonology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Millions engage in SCUBA diving annually, with many having a history of asthma.
• Historically, asthma patients were prohibited from diving due to safety concerns.
• Current guidelines suggest certain asthma patients may dive safely.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the risks associated with SCUBA diving for individuals with asthma.
• To discuss current medical guidelines for assessing fitness to dive in asthma patients.
• To inform physicians on counseling divers with asthma.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of contemporary guidelines and evidence on adverse events in diving asthma patients.
• Analysis of risks including pulmonary barotrauma, pneumothorax, and arterial gas embolism.
• Focus on the incidence of asthma-related diving injuries.

Main Results:

• Divers with asthma face increased risks: pulmonary barotrauma, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, arterial gas embolism, reduced pulmonary function, bronchospasm, and decompression sickness.
• Evidence suggests a select group of asthma patients can dive with acceptable risk.
• Physicians require clear guidelines for dive safety assessments.

Conclusions:

• Careful assessment and adherence to updated guidelines are crucial for managing asthma patients who wish to SCUBA dive.
• Understanding specific risks allows for informed medical counseling.
• Further research may refine risk stratification for diving with asthma.