Prevalence and characteristics of lung function changes in recreational scuba divers

Abstract

Aims:

To investigate the hypothesis that a salt water SCUBA dive may cause bronchoconstriction in some individuals.

Methods:

100 experienced recreational SCUBA divers acted as their own controls. Spirometry measures were taken with Easyone™ spirometers before and after a dive. Measures recorded included FEV₁/FVC ratio and forced mid-expiratory flow (FEF_25–75%).

Results:

60 participants (68% male, 32% female) aged between 19–68 years (mean 47 years) produced data meeting ATS/ERS international standards. Of these, 23% exhibited pre-dive FEV₁/FVC ratio values less than 75%. Statistics on paired samples of pre- and post-parameters showed a significant decrease in FVC post-dive but did not show significant reductions in FEV₁ or FEV₁/FVC. Six (10%) were current smokers and 13 (21%) were former smokers.

Conclusions:

25% of participants had reduced FEV₁/FVC ratio regardless of undertaking a dive. Consideration of the clinical implications requires further investigation.