I really want to start scuba diving but i am scared of the breathing risks. help?

Question

I have asthma, and it scares me to know i'm so far away from oxygen. A lot of people that have scuba dived have told me you don't feel it but I don't want to take a chance. What should I do? I am 16 years old.

Answer 1

If you are an asthmatic, you'll need to visit a Doctor that specializes in dive medicine first. There are certain classes of asthmatics that simply aren't allowed to get certified and you'll need to be medically cleared before ANY dive shop will teach you.

Answer 2

it's never good to start a hobby scared....

Answer 3

You might try snorkeling, just to see how you feel having your head in the water and breathing through a mouthpiece.  It's a good way to get a feel for it, because if you do become panicked, all you have to do is lift your head out of the water.

Also, Scubabob is right about being medically cleared. Please listen to your doctor and don't try to dive if you are not feeling 100%, it is not worth the risk.