## Why Does Holding Breath Cause a Collapsed Lung When Scuba Diving?
Scuba diving is a popular activity that allows people to explore the underwater world. However, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with scuba diving, one of which is a collapsed lung.
A collapsed lung occurs when air escapes from the lung and into the space between the lung and the chest wall. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including holding breath while scuba diving.
When you hold breath while scuba diving, the air in your lungs expands as the pressure decreases. If you hold breath for too long, the air in your lungs can expand to the point where it causes a tear in the lung tissue. This allows air to escape from the lung and into the space between the lung and the chest wall, causing a collapsed lung.
### Symptoms of a Collapsed Lung
The symptoms of a collapsed lung can vary depending on the size of the collapse. Small collapses may not cause any symptoms, while larger collapses can cause severe pain, shortness of breath, and even death.
The most common symptoms of a collapsed lung include:
Sudden, sharp pain in the chest
Shortness of breath
Rapid heart rate
Cyanosis (blue tint to the skin)
Coughing up blood
### Treatment for a Collapsed Lung
The treatment for a collapsed lung depends on the size of the collapse. Small collapses may not require any treatment, while larger collapses may require surgery.
The most common treatment for a collapsed lung is needle aspiration. This involves inserting a needle into the space between the lung and the chest wall and withdrawing the air. In some cases, a chest tube may be inserted to drain the air from the space between the lung and the chest wall.
### Preventing a Collapsed Lung
The best way to prevent a collapsed lung is to avoid holding breath while scuba diving. If you must hold breath, do so for as short a time as possible.
Other ways to prevent a collapsed lung include:
Diving with a buddy
Ascending slowly from dives
Avoiding diving in deep water
Avoiding diving in cold water
### Conclusion
A collapsed lung is a serious medical condition that can occur when scuba diving. It is important to be aware of the risks associated with scuba diving and to take steps to prevent a collapsed lung.