Anoxia
Anoxia is a Diving Health Risk and is described as the state of lack of oxygen in tissues to support normal activities. Brain cells are damaged when there is too low oxygen present in the blood.
In Diving, Anoxia occurs when the diver breathes in breathing gas which has no oxygen.
Causes and Symptoms
With regards to Diving, Anoxia occurs due to a number of causes. If a Diver runs out of air because he gets trapped or lost inside caves or shipwrecks, or he gets entangled with nets or ropes, he may have Anoxia. It may also be caused by equipment failure.
Warning signs of Anoxia are somewhat similar to that of Hypoxia. The victim will experience headache, dizziness, and coma, depending on the severity of the condition.
Prevention
Just like in Hypoxia, proper knowledge, preparation, and training can help prevent the occurrence of Anoxia. Make sure to check your Diving Gear and Equipment prior to the dive, and conform to the guidelines on how to dive safely and properly.
Treatment
Seek medical help or ask someone to do it. The victim must be brought to the surface immediately, as Hypoxia may lead to other conditions such as unconsciousness and drowning. If the victim is breathing on the surface, make sure that normal respiration is established. Establish a sufficient airway immediately, with the use of adequate oxygen to saturate the blood. Administer CPR when necessary in order to establish normal respiration.
There are many causes of Anoxia. Make sure you know what to do in case these health risks arise.
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