Can I continue diving as an asthmatic?

Question

I stopped diving when I was diagnosed but my asthma is considered mild/controlled.It was suggested that I try Nitrox, what do you think?

Answer 1

Yes, absolutely.  Swimming is one of the best exercises for those with asthma.  But just like any exercise, don't overdo it.

Answer 2

I can understand the reasoning behind someone suggesting you try nitrox since it has a higher than normal O2 content but there are also inherent hazards with it as well because of that higher O2 content not to mention that to use it, you'll need to take the course on it. Would it actually be beneficial to dive nitrox? I doubt it. Even using normal compressed air you're not using all of it's O2 content in a breath. I personally, don't see an asthmatic gaining anything from nitrox since that medical condition isn't necessarily an inability of lung tissue to do gas exchange but rather a problem with getting air to those tissues in the first place due to airway constriction.

Has your Diving Doc cleared you to dive again? That should be your primary concern first. Everybody is different. He may think your condition isn't controlled enough to try.

Answer 3

ya i hav asthma and my breathing has improved alot jus take your inhaler before you start but im not a diver (ican barely do a front flip) but i do competeitve swimming