Neurological disorders after repetitive breath-hold diving

Aviat Space Environ Med. 2006 Sep;77(9):971-3.

Abstract

We report a case of transient neurological disorder compatible with cerebral decompression illness in a breath-hold diver. A large right-to-left shunt was later detected with contrast transcranial Doppler ultrasound. While the mechanism of brain damage is unclear, this observation highlights the need for breath-hold divers to avoid excessive nitrogen loading and to refrain from forceful Valsalva maneuvers that may contribute to the opening of a patent foramen ovale and lead to paradoxical cerebral embolism. Because decompression illness is a possibility, anyone who experiences unusual symptoms after breath-hold diving should seek immediate medical attention.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chest Pain / etiology
  • Decompression Sickness / etiology
  • Diving / adverse effects*
  • Dizziness / etiology
  • Dyspnea / etiology
  • Echoencephalography
  • Embolism, Air / diagnostic imaging
  • Flushing / etiology
  • Humans
  • Hyperbaric Oxygenation
  • Hypesthesia / etiology
  • Male
  • Respiration*
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler
  • Vision Disorders / etiology