Barotrauma after first open water dive?

[SarahPADI]

Hey divers,

I just had my first open water dive (PADI) and we had a to make an emergency ascent because one of the students panicked. I didn't pay too much attention to my breathing but don't think I held my breath. We came from around 5m/18ft.

Either way, after the dive I'm feeling a little light headed and have been experiencing some chest discomfort/pressure beneath my sternum. The dive was about 3hours ago.

Should I be worried?
Your advice will be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

-Sarah

 

[northernone]

----- call www.diversalertnetwork.org
DAN - Divers Alert Network I wouldn't pretend to be a doctor. And they are very nice and a call is free -----


Hi.

Sounds worrisome after learning about DCS doesn't it. As a hyperbaric chamber operator from what I have seen of DCS what you're experiencing would be unlikely to almost an impossibility to be DCS related given the symptoms you describe after a shallow dive. How long were you at that depth before the other diver panicked?

If I were to guess, you may have some stress, over exertion, possibility muscle strain or at worst something related to holding your breath on ascent a little.

If it was me, I'd do some calm stretching, drink water and lay with my feet elevated a while. Or simple go about my day.

Glad to hear your taking your training and were the calm one in the stressful situation.

Regards,
Cameron

 

[northernone]

Also, welcome to the forum! I'm glad you're joining this great community.

Please keep us updated.

Warmly,
Cameron

 

[SarahPADI]

Thank you Cameron.
We were at the depth for around 20 minutes. But it's actually pulmory barotrauma I'm afraid off...

 

[northernone]

Thank you Cameron.
We were at the depth for around 20 minutes. But it's actually pulmory barotrauma I'm afraid off...

Yes, that does sound possible if you did hold your breath hard on ascent. Was the pain immediate upon surfacing? Any coughing blood?

 

[boulderjohn]

Yes, your concern would most likely relate to something like mediastinal emphysema. Tell your instructor of your concerns--he or she will want to make a report even if it turns out to be nothing. Contact DAN for medical advice right away: Join or Renew DAN Scuba Diving Membership, Contact DAN — DAN | Divers Alert Network

 

[cerich]

Call the DAN hotline and discuss with them the best avenue.

If it was your ears i would have replied, pretty common, if not better in a day or two go see a doc (who will likely give you drops with a steroid which will in almost every case resolve the problem quickly)

With what you are describing however, you need competent medical advice followed by competent medical evaluation, not the internet experts. The DAN hotline is the best guide to the above

 

[SarahPADI]

Yes, that does sound possible if you did hold your breath hard on ascent. Was the pain immediate upon surfacing? Any coughing blood?

No coughing (or blood coughing), I didn't notice the discomfort until I was fully 'ungeared'.

 

[cerich]

1-919-684-9111

That is the number to call, the call to DAN will cost you nothing but some time

 

[divad]

Call them. They'll be happy to talk to you.