SCUBA divers use specially designed equipment, such as high pressure air cylinders, regulators and other specialized equipment which make it possible for us to breathe under water. During a typical dive, we breathe compressed (pressurized) air.

        We breath higher air pressures in order to balance the increased water pressures encountered at depth. This also means we are breathing a greater volume of air on each inhalation. Air is comprised of a natural mixture of Oxygen (21%), Nitrogen(78%), and trace gases(1%). The largest constituent gas component of air is Nitrogen. Nitrogen gas forms roughly 78% of our  breathing air. On land, at surface pressures, this 'inert' ('non-reactionary'---it goes into solution and comes out unchanged) gas poses no problem, is easily inhaled and exhaled. At depths approaching 30 meters (100 feet), however, the higher percentage of Nitrogen in our inspired air can induce 'altered states' of perception, affecting some of our higher brain functions. Referred to as 'Nitrogen Narcosis', and similar to feelings of alcohol intoxication, this condition affects some individuals more severely than others, is time and depth related, and is temporary... returning to  shallower depths will immediately reverse the manifestation of pressure induced Nitrogen Narcosis. None-the-less, during the onset, this condition has the potential to induce feelings of  disassociation, presenting with sensations ranging from mild discomfort to uncontrolled euphoria, including possible episodes of memory loss or causing a state of such severe confusion, that it may potentially lead to death by drowning. Recreational SCUBA diving using compressed air is sometimes limited to 30 meters (100 feet) for the novice, in respectful consideration of this potential for mishap.

As we gain in understanding and as our skill level increases, we may elect to dive with SCUBA cylinders which have been filled with specially formulated mixtures of various compressed gases. NITROX and HELIOX breathing mixtures, and specialized gas rebreathing systems all require highly technical, specially dedicated, professional training and certification. They open new diving horizons, and some allow for extended time and depth profile diving. Quality control of these gas mixtures and the pursuit of proper and qualified training is understandably of paramount concern. Feel free to contact Bangkok Hospital Phuket with any questions during the planning phase of your next Thailand or Phuket diving holiday.