What Is A Lung Squeeze?

09/10/2023

Beneath the surface, there are risks and challenges that come with the territory. One such risk that every diver should be aware of is lung squeeze, a condition that can have serious consequences if not properly understood and managed. In this article, we will delve into the world of lung squeeze, exploring its causes, symptoms, risks, and the importance of prevention and safety measures. Through the examination of scientific research, case studies, and expert opinions, we aim to answer the crucial question: is lung squeeze dangerous?

Understanding Lung Squeeze: An Overview

To comprehend lung squeeze fully, it's essential to start with an understanding of the basics. Lung squeeze, also known as pulmonary barotrauma, is a condition that can occur during freediving due to the pressure changes experienced as divers descend into the depths of the ocean. These pressure changes can affect the air spaces in the body, including the lungs.

The human body is not designed to withstand the extreme pressure variations experienced in deep-sea diving. As a diver descends into the water, the surrounding water pressure increases with depth. For every 33 feet (10 meters) of descent, the pressure increases by about 1 atmosphere (ATM), equivalent to the pressure exerted by a column of mercury 760 millimeters (29.92 inches) high at sea level. While our bodies can adapt to some degree, there are limits to how much pressure they can tolerate.

Mechanism of Lung Squeeze

Lung squeeze occurs when a diver fails to equalize the pressure inside their lungs with the surrounding water pressure adequately. To understand this, we must first consider the composition of the lungs. The lungs are essentially two large, spongy organs filled with air. The air pressure within the lungs is normally lower than the water pressure outside when diving. During descent, the increasing external pressure can compress the air within the lungs. This compression can cause damage to the lung tissues, leading to lung squeeze. Imagine a balloon being squeezed as you descend deeper into the water - the same principle applies to the air within your lungs.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognizing the symptoms of lung squeeze is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms can vary in severity, and they typically manifest within a few hours of the dive or even after surfacing. Common symptoms of lung squeeze include:

Chest Pain: Sharp or aching pain in the chest is often the most noticeable symptom.Difficulty Breathing: Divers may experience difficulty in taking deep breaths or may feel short of breath.
Coughing: Coughing, often accompanied by blood-tinged or frothy sputum, can be a sign of lung squeeze.
Fatigue: Divers may feel excessively tired or fatigued.
Blue Lips or Skin: In severe cases, a bluish tint to the lips or skin can occur due to a lack of oxygen.

Diagnosing lung squeeze typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies. Doctors may use chest X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans to visualize any potential damage to the lungs. Blood tests may also be conducted to assess oxygen levels and rule out other conditions.

Risks and Complications

Now, let's explore the potential risks and complications associated with lung squeeze. While lung squeeze is relatively rare among recreational divers who follow safety procedures and guidelines, it can be a serious and even life-threatening condition. Here are some of the risks and complications:

Tissue Damage: As the air in the lungs compresses, it can lead to damage to the lung tissues. This damage can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of compression and the individual's susceptibility.
Pneumothorax: In some cases, lung squeeze can result in a pneumothorax, a condition where air escapes from the lungs and becomes trapped in the space between the lung and the chest wall. This can lead to a collapsed lung, which is a medical emergency.
Hypoxia: Lung squeeze can compromise the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the bloodstream (hypoxia). Severe hypoxia can be life-threatening.
Barotrauma to Other Organs: While lung squeeze primarily affects the lungs, it can also lead to barotrauma in other air-filled spaces in the body, such as the sinuses and ears.
Long-term Effects: Depending on the severity of the lung squeeze and the promptness of treatment, there may be long-term effects on lung function and overall health.

Prevention and Safety Measures

The old adage "prevention is better than cure" holds particularly true when it comes to lung squeeze. Divers can take several proactive steps to reduce the risk of lung squeeze:

Proper Training: One of the most critical aspects of prevention is proper training. Divers should receive comprehensive training from certified instructors who emphasize the importance of equalization techniques and safety protocols.
Equalization Techniques: Divers should become proficient in equalization techniques such as the Valsalva maneuver, Frenzel maneuver, and hands free. These techniques help equalize pressure in the middle ear and sinuses, reducing the risk of lung squeeze.
Stay Within Safe Depth Limits: Divers should adhere to recommended depth limits based on their training and experience. These limits are designed to minimize the risk of lung squeeze and other diving-related injuries. It's essential to resist the temptation to push deeper than one's training and experience allow.
Regular Health Checkups: Before engaging in freediving, divers should undergo regular health checkups, particularly if they have any pre-existing medical conditions that may increase their susceptibility to lung squeeze.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body during dives. If you experience any discomfort or pain in your chest or have trouble equalizing pressure in your ears or sinuses, it's crucial to ascend slowly and seek assistance if necessary.

Statistics and Incidence Rates

Understanding the prevalence of lung squeeze among divers is essential to grasp the scope of the problem. While lung squeeze is relatively rare, it can occur, especially in certain diving scenarios and under specific conditions. Statistically, the incidence of lung squeeze can vary based on factors such as dive depth, diver experience, and adherence to safety protocols. However, it's important to note that even though lung squeeze is relatively uncommon, it can have severe consequences when it does occur. This underscores the need for continued education and awareness among divers.

Treatment and Recovery

In the event of a suspected lung squeeze, seeking immediate medical attention is paramount. Treatment options may include:

Oxygen Therapy: Administering high-flow oxygen can help alleviate symptoms and improve oxygen levels in the bloodstream.
Recompression Therapy: For severe cases of lung squeeze, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may be necessary. HBOT involves placing the patient in a hyperbaric chamber to deliver high-pressure oxygen, which can aid in the healing process.
Rest and Observation: After treatment, divers may require a period of rest and observation to ensure that they have fully recovered and to monitor for any potential complications.

Recovery from lung squeeze can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the promptness of treatment. While some individuals may experience a full recovery, others may have long-term effects on lung function. Following medical advice and adhering to any recommended rest periods and activity restrictions during the recovery phase is crucial.