Citation

Tetzlaff K, Thorsen E. Clin. Chest Med. 2005; 26(3): 355-80, v.

Affiliation

Department of Sports Medicine, Medical Clinic and Polyclinic, University of Tübingen, Silcherstrasse 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany. Kay.Tetzlaff@bc.boehringer-ingelheim.com

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.ccm.2005.05.001

PMID

16140132

Abstract

When diving, human beings are exposed to hazards that are unique to the hyperbaric underwater environment and the physical behavior of gases at higher ambient pressure. Hypercapnia, hyperoxia, carbon monoxide intoxication, inert gas (predominantly nitrogen) narcosis, and decompression illness all may lead to impaired consciousness, with a high risk of drowning in this non-respirable environment. Proper physiologic function and adaptation of the respiratory system are of the utmost importance to minimize the risks associated with compressed gas diving. This article provides an introduction to the diving techniques, the physics, and the pertinent human physiology and pathophysiology associated with this extreme environment. The causes of the major medical problems encountered in diving are described, with an emphasis on the underlying respiratory physiology.

Language: en