Diving and Lung Injuries
To prevent lung overexpansion injury, always exhale small bubbles when the regulator is out of your mouth.
Causes of Lung Overexpansion Injuries
If the airflow inside your lungs becomes restricted as you ascend, the expanding air can rupture the delicate alveoli inside your lungs. This happens without any warning or sensation, and can occur in as little as 4 feet of water.
The best prevention against lung overexpansion injuries is to never hold your breath. This is why you must exhale small bubbles whenever your regulator is out of your mouth, and the reason you must exhale continuously during an emergency swimming ascent.
Holding your breath isn't the only cause of lung injuries. Chest congestion, scar tissue, lung disease, and damage from smoking can create airflow restrictions that trap air and lead to overexpansion injuries.
The best prevention against lung overexpansion injuries is to never hold your breath. This is why you must exhale small bubbles whenever your regulator is out of your mouth, and the reason you must exhale continuously during an emergency swimming ascent.
Holding your breath isn't the only cause of lung injuries. Chest congestion, scar tissue, lung disease, and damage from smoking can create airflow restrictions that trap air and lead to overexpansion injuries.
