Salt water aspiration syndrome

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Salt water aspiration syndrome is a rare diving disorder suffered by scuba divers who inhale a mist of seawater from a faulty demand valve causing irritation of the lungs. It is not the same thing as aspiration of salt water as a bulk liquid, i.e. drowning.^[1][2] It can be treated by rest for several hours. If severe, medical assessment is required.

Symptoms[]

Symptoms of salt water aspiration syndrome include:^[2]

• Post-dive cough, with or without sputum, usually suppressed during the dive.
  • In serious cases the sputum may be bloodstained, frothy and copious.
• Over time further symptoms may develop, including:
  • rigors, tremors or shivering;
  • nausea or vomiting;
  • hot or cold sensations;
  • dyspnea; cough; sputum; shortness of breath;
  • headaches; malaise; and generalised aches.
  • Cyanosis
  • Mild fever

Diagnosis[]

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Treatment[]

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See also[]

• Pulmonary aspiration

References[]

External links[]

• Diving Medicine Online — Salt Water Aspiration Syndrome