Altitude diving offers many benefits, including spectacular views and a greater sense of safety. This article will explain the techniques and equipment required to dive at high elevations. It will also help plan your trip and maximize your enjoyment. Learn more about the sport, and you will be a certified altitude diver! After reading this article, you'll be more prepared to enjoy the adventure of your life! Here are some things you should know.
Diving at high altitudes
There are many dangers to diving at high elevations. The increased density of air makes it difficult to maintain a constant air pressure, and oxygen concentration decreases with altitude. Higher altitudes have more humidified and colder air. Cold air can cause asthmatic wheezes or bronchial irritation. Hypoxia can also be caused by decreased oxygen availability. Another risk is dehydration.
Techniques
This type of diving is not only physically challenging, but also has psychological implications. A diver's oxygen consumption will be reduced, and the total pressure during the descent will be lower than at sea level. The nitrogen concentration in the descent will also drop. To be successful at altitude diving, it is important to use the right equipment and techniques. Here are some tips for preparing for your trip.
Equipment
While it may seem possible to purchase the right equipment for altitude dives, you should remember that you may also require special training to be able to dive in the mountains. To learn more about altitude diving, check out the PADI Course Catalog. You can also select a related specialty, such as a PSAI Master Scuba Diver course. Renting equipment may be an option. These are some of the things you will need.
Safety
A higher altitude means greater risks for decompression sickness. Divers who dive at lower pressure are still more susceptible to decompression sick. In addition to decompression sickness, the risk of hypoxia, or reduced oxygen levels, increases. Many training organizations recommend that divers wait 12 hours before making their first dive. However, there are many other factors to be aware of.
Benefits
The increased popularity of recreational scuba diving is increasing the risk of accidents and illnesses while diving. There is a higher chance of decompression sickness and other altitude-related diseases at higher altitudes. Because the atmospheric pressure is lower than that of the standard decompression tables, decompression is more stressful. This activity will discuss the benefits and risks of diving at high altitude, and highlight key concepts that can be used to coordinate safe and effective care.