Why do I feel tired after scuba? What is a diver's fatigue?
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Loading... - Sophia Brown
- 15 Sep 2022
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Scuba diving is a magical adventure unlike any other. The breathtaking underwater paradise of the marine world is sure to satisfy even the biggest adrenaline junkie. That said, it can be dangerous if you aren’t careful.
Vibrant marine creatures and habitats bring a dynamic ecosystem. You can only prepare for so many situations, even in shallow depths. From thermal stress and heat loss to bodily fatigue from alcohol and lack of sleep, there are countless potential complications that could tire you out.
The sheer hydrostatic pressure underwater is enough to leave you with a physiological impact for some time. Don’t get me wrong, it’s well worth the inherent risks. You just gotta come prepared.
What is diver fatigue? Is it normal to be exhausted?
Diver fatigue is completely normal. Here are all the factors to watch out for.
1. Accumulation of CO2: It’s the biggest cause of post-dive fatigue since carbon dioxide is considered acid at high concentrations. This buildup can throw our bodies into respiratory alkalosis – heavy breathing and hyperventilation. Now, over-breathing is a defense mechanism at high altitudes because of low oxygen concentration.
But it’s a massive problem underwater. With O2 percentages as high as 21% in your air tank, over-breathing can cause oxygen exposure and all the problems that come with it.
2. Water Temperature: Water conducts heat off your body almost 20 times faster than air. This forces your body to burn energy at an increased rate to keep you warm.
3. Decompression Stress (DCS): It’s one of the biggest and most common post-dive problems you should be wary of.
4. Energy Expenditure: You’re burning energy faster underwater, so any unnecessary movement can unknowingly contribute to it.
5. Anxiety and Stress: Yes. We burn/waste more energy when we’re anxious or under stress. Make sure you remain calm and with your guide at all times.
How does diving affect the body?
The build-up of carbon dioxide (CO2) can raise red flags in many different ways. Still, the most prominent one is decompression sickness or decompression stress.
Every individual’s body gets rid of CO2 in its own way and pace. The rate at which you remove excess CO2 can affect oxygen and nitrogen levels in your blood.
With the sudden pressure changes outside, your body will try to equalize internal pressure. This, in turn, leads to heavy breathing and hyperventilation and even increased blood volume to get rid of excess pressure.
In layman’s terms, it’s not technically a sickness but the stress on your body due to sudden changes in external and internal pressure. And that’s how you get a case of “diver’s fatigue.” Read More…
