Winter2016AlertDiver

ALERTDIVER.COM

Another possibility that you should consider is that this may be related

to swallowing air while breathing from your regulator. Divers swallow a

certain amount of air as a result of breathing compressed gas, and a second

stage with very low breathing resistance or that is prone to free flowing can

increase air swallowing. You might consider having your regulator serviced

and discussing your issues with the service technician. A “tightening up” of

the second stage may help you.

Remember this is all speculation and that an evaluation by a doctor is crucial.

— Frances Smith, EMT-P, DMT

What do I need to know about diving with a cold sore?

Here are a few issues you should consider:

Risk of further injury

— Sun exposure or mechanical trauma from

the mask and/or regulator may worsen the wound, creating a larger

scab and lengthening the healing process.

Infection

— If the sore is bleeding, oozing or otherwise open, the risk of

infection by pathogens in the water is significant. Cold sores can become

complicated by bacterial infections, so it is important to wash them

thoroughly with soap and water and keep them as clean and as dry (in

general) as possible.

Impaired mask fit

— If a mask skirt will be placed over the sore in a way

that rubs or irritates it, then diving should be postponed. The same is true

of the regulator; if holding it would cause irritation, then diving would not

be recommended.

Transmission

— Dive buddies should review procedures for buddy

breathing in an out-of-air situation in light of the fact that cold sores are

contagious. If gear is rented, ensure proper decontamination procedures

are followed. Although it’s unlikely, there is always a chance that

resuscitation may be needed. Thus, precautions should be taken to prevent

disease transmission. This is normally not an issue because barrier devices

are readily available in most first aid kits.

Treatments such as penciclovir (Denavir) and docosanol (Abreva) can soften

the skin and promote healing. Topical numbing agents such as phenol and

menthol may be used for comfort. See your doctor and begin using an over-

the-counter product at the first sign of a cold sore; beginning antiviral therapy

within the first 48 hours can speed recovery.

— Lana Sorrell, EMT, DMT

DIVE INTO

THE BLUE

unexso

Tel: (242) 373-1244

With our world

renowned dive crew;

explore wrecks, reefs

and marine life.

Freeport, Grand Bahama

Near The Port Lucaya Marketplace

@unexsobahamas

CHRISTO/SHUTTERSTOCK