Neurological Disorders After Repetitive Breath-Hold Diving

Authors: Gempp, Emmanuel; Blatteau, Jean-Eric

Source: Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Volume 77, Number 9, September 2006 , pp. 971-973(3)

Publisher: Aerospace Medical Association

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Abstract:

Gempp E, Blatteau J-E. Neurological disorders after repetitive breath-hold diving. Aviat Space Environ Med 2006; 77:971-973.

We report a case of transient neurological disorder compatible with cerebral decompression illness in a breath-hold diver. A large right-to-left shunt was later detected with contrast transcranial Doppler ultrasound. While the mechanism of brain damage is unclear, this observation highlights the need for breath-hold divers to avoid excessive nitrogen loading and to refrain from forceful Valsalva maneuvers that may contribute to the opening of a patent foramen ovale and lead to paradoxical cerebral embolism. Because decompression illness is a possibility, anyone who experiences unusual symptoms after breath-hold diving should seek immediate medical attention.

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Keywords: breath-hold diving; decompression sickness; right-to-left shunt; patent foramen ovale; arterial gas embolism

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2006-09-01

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The peer-reviewed monthly journal, Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine (ASEM) provides contact with physicians, life scientists, bioengineers, and medical specialists working in both basic medical research and in its clinical applications. It is the most used and cited journal in its field. ASEM is distributed to more than 80 nations.
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