Asthma is a chronic pulmonary respiratory disease with no cure. A controlled lifestyle and a reasonable amount of caution would allow an asthmatic to lead a fairly normal life. The disease affects people of all ages and genders.

Asthma is characterized by the following respiratory conditions:

 • Inflammation
 • hyperresponsiveness
 • Obstruction

The exact cause of the disease remains unknown but it is a rare disease that affects the air passages due to:

 • The contraction of the muscles of the step air
 • Mucus production
 • Swelling of the airways

In the process of breathing, air is drawn through the trachea which divides into the bronchi and more in the bronchioles and alveoli. Through this passage of air, oxygen is absorbed into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide is collected and removed. An asthmatic is susceptible to certain irritants that cause a reaction that causes air passages to a spasm or constriction. It causes shortness of breath and wheezing due to constriction or due to obstruction of the airways with mucus.

Scuba diving is swimming underwater for an extended period of time during which the diver breathes in a self-made compressed air supply. It is vital that the air in the diver passages must be cleared in order to equalize air pressure while underwater. The risk for asthma stems from the fact that they can develop flow obstructions air at any time in the lungs to be an impediment to equality. In addition, asthmatics may be predisposed to air trapping.

Asthmatics can not be disqualified for diving, but should be aware of potential risks. Diving is good for those who suffer from allergy-induced asthma, but not for the sick likely to exercise, cold or emotion-induced asthma attacks.

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Pauline Go is an online leading expert in the medical industry. She also offers top quality articles like :
Incurable Diseases, Allergic Asthma Signs

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