Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide is a gas produced through the process of combustion. It is highly toxic to humans when breathed on the surface, and exponentially so when inspired under pressure.
Carbon monoxide binds with hemoglobin quicker and easier than oxygen. In fact, hemoglobin has a chemical affinity for carbon monoxide that is 200 times greater than it’s affinity for oxygen. Eventually, as carbon monoxide is inspired, hypoxia — the deprivation of oxygen, will occur as oxygen levels drop in the body.
Carbon monoxide poisoning in a diver is possible if the diver breathes contaminated gas from a cylinder that was filled using a poorly, or improperly maintained compressor, or a compressor whose intake was located near high vehicular traffic areas, parking lots or exhaust manifolds.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning vary based on the degree of exposure. Headache, nausea and vomiting are typical with minimal exposure, leading to hypoxia and loss of consciousness as exposure continues. If no action is taken, death will occur. If you have a contaminated cylinder, the symptoms will rapidly progress to unconsciousness.
Immediately terminate the dive if you experience headache, nausea, or feel light headed, at any time during a dive.
Mild cases of carbon monoxide poisoning can be reversed with the administration of 100 percent oxygen. More severe cases require Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy treatment in a hyperbaric chamber.
In any case, a medical professional should evaluate the exposed individual as soon as possible.
Lipoid Pneumonia
Lipoid Pneumonia results when breathing gas that is contaminated with oil is inhaled. This causes the lung tissue to become inflamed and may disrupt, or even prevent proper gas exchange in the reparatory membrane in the alveoli.
For divers, this is usually the result of a poorly maintained compressor, or compressor malfunction. For example, filters designed to remove impurities and cleanse the gas before it is put into the cylinder may be old, or damaged allowing oil through.
Alternatively, the compressor’s o-rings and, or piston rings may be failing, allowing lubricant into the system. In any case, breathing gas that is tainted with oil droplets will eventually cause medical problems. Immediate medical treatment is required if lipoid pneumonia is suspected.
Symptoms of lipoid pneumonia may take time to develop after exposure to the tainted breathing gas. Immediately terminate a dive and seek medical attention if you develop breathing problems. Additionally, seek immediate medical attention if you develop breathing problems, unexplained coughing, wheezing, and, or colored discharge days to weeks after a dive.
Petroleum products inside a cylinder often have a distinct odor and taste. It’s always a good idea to smell the gas from the cylinder before you assemble your scuba system and taste the gas after assembly. It should be odorless and tasteless.
If you notice strange tasting gas, or a film in your mouth after breathing from the regulator, immediately discontinue its use.