## How to Avoid Air Embolism Scuba Diving
Air embolism is a serious scuba diving injury that can occur when air enters the bloodstream through a tear in the lung tissue. This can cause a blockage in the blood vessels, which can lead to a stroke, heart attack, or even death.
There are a number of things that you can do to avoid air embolism while scuba diving, including:
* **Ascend slowly.** The faster you ascend, the more likely you are to develop an air embolism. Ascend at a rate of no more than 30 feet per minute.
* **Exhale continuously during your ascent.** This will help to prevent air from getting trapped in your lungs.
* **Do not hold your breath.** Holding your breath can increase the pressure in your lungs, which can lead to a tear in the lung tissue.
* **Avoid Valsalva maneuvers.** Valsalva maneuvers are used to clear your ears, but they can also increase the pressure in your lungs. Avoid performing Valsalva maneuvers while you are ascending.
* **Use a buoyancy compensator device (BCD).** A BCD will help you to control your buoyancy and ascend slowly.
* **Be aware of your surroundings.** Be aware of the depth you are diving at and the amount of time you have been underwater.
* **Get certified in scuba diving.** A certified scuba instructor can teach you the proper techniques for avoiding air embolism.
## Symptoms of Air Embolism
The symptoms of air embolism can include:
* **Chest pain**
* **Shortness of breath**
* **Coughing up blood**
* **Dizziness**
* **Nausea**
* **Vomiting**
* **Confusion**
* **Seizures**
* **Loss of consciousness**
## Treatment for Air Embolism
If you suspect that you have an air embolism, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for air embolism may include:
* **Oxygen therapy.** Oxygen therapy can help to reduce the amount of nitrogen in your bloodstream.
* **Hyperbaric oxygen therapy.** Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This can help to dissolve the air bubbles in your bloodstream.
* **Surgery.** In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the air bubbles from your bloodstream.
## Prevention is Key
Air embolism is a serious scuba diving injury that can be avoided by following the proper safety guidelines. By ascending slowly, exhaling continuously during your ascent, and avoiding Valsalva maneuvers, you can help to reduce your risk of developing an air embolism.
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