I can't brethe underwater...?

Question

For some reason, when I go underwater, it is hard for my lungs to intake air. Even if my head is above water and I can breathe, my lungs feel like they are collapsing... This usually does not happen. What is happening?

Answer 1

******As an experienced diver, I have felt similar sensations in the water.  I noticed that it is harder to breath underwater when I am in an upright position.  Then when I am stretched out for swimming, it becomes easier to breath.  

The pressure of water increases by one atmosphere every 33 feet, or ten meters, and air compresses underwater as well.  One breath of air at 33 feet doesn't seem like a lot, but once you ascend, you actually have extra air to spare as it expands.

My advice to you would be to practice being relaxed in the water, and when it feels tight, be aware of your body position as well as the properties of air compression and expansion as you learn.  It gets much better with practice and confidence.

HOPE THAT HELPS!

Answer 2

Humans have lungs and some people have more hardened lungs than others. The reason why that might be happening is because your lungs are not used to being under pressure in water.