Inert Gases in Scuba Diving
While scuba diving can be a great way to explore the sea there are inert gases in scuba diving that should be understood prior to descent.
There are numerous disorders that can occur from diving. It is important that all divers be aware of these disorders, since most dive tour guides do not know how to cure certain diseases. The first illness to be aware of is ear barotrauma. Ear barotrauma occurs when a diver does not equalize the pressure changes effectively within the central part of the ear. The rapid pressure drop can cause bleeding, vertigo, or decreased hearing. Most of the time, this disorder will clear up if a diver seeks medical attention immediately. Aside from ear barotrauma, there are many other disorders that have to do with inert gases in scuba diving.
Decompression illness is very common as well. This illness refers to dysbaric injury, arterial gas embolism, and decompression sickness. This illness can often occur within divers that have followed all safety procedures, and there is no way to prevent this illness from happening. Arterial gas embolism is another illness that is quite serious. This includes an overinflation of the lungs. As a diver ascends, they are required to exhale. If a diver forgets to exhale, the lung tissue can expand causing damage. This illness can often result in lung collapse.
When it comes to inert gases in scuba diving the biggest concern has to do with decompression sickness. When a diver breathes under the water, nitrogen is sent into the body. A diver that has been stricken with decompression sickness will experience joint aches, numbness, tingling, mottling, coughing, shortness of breath, itching, instant fatigue, weakness, loss of bowel, loss of coordination, tremors, of unconsciousness. Sometimes, this condition can be fatal. If any of these symptoms occur, a diver must seek medical attention right away.
While some of these disorders can be avoided with careful attention to diving detail, others cannot be avoided. The best way to protect yourself is to know the symptoms, causes, and right ways to ascend and descend. Be sure to take lots of practice courses prior to jumping into the deep, and be certain that you know what you are doing before you attempt to dive.
The inert gases in scuba diving that are released into the body cannot be avoided. However, you can try to prevent any damage by following all rules and precautions carefully.