can smokers scuba?

[Skeptic_07]

ahaha... unfortunately... things have taken a bad turn and i will not be going diving any time soon... we're taking our honeymoon out on montauk point or that hamptons to save some $$$$ .. no coral reefs for us!!! at least no reefs that arent in tanks :lol: ehhh

 

[billsreef]

There's good diving out there Might not be tropical reefs, but plenty of interesting critters.

 

[twoodall]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12787064#post12787064 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by fvandijk
Smokers do have a higher risk than the general population of having undiagnosed emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Although I am not sure that there is documented scientific evidence demonstrating the following, this does place them at least potentially at a higher risk of developing decompression injury(i.e. barotrauma such as pneumothorax- collapsed lung, pneumomediastinum- and arterial gas embolism). As you know, gas occupies a smaller volume when placed under pressure (i.e. when diving). When surfacing, gas expands and if it is trapped for one reason or other (i.e. emphysematous lung or mucus plugging in an airway) it still continues to expand and in so doinng can cause injury to the lung (sometimes severe).

You may want to talk about your risks with a qualified physician and/or check out DAN (www.diversalertnetwork.org)

GREAT ADVICE HERE.

 

[LRBart]

The problem with smokers and scuba diving is that if you are a non diver, you must complete a health waiver. There are things that when answered yes to, you must have a doctors release. I am a smoker and would not allow anyone in my class without the necessary paperwork. This risk is too great.