Does hyperbaric chamber attendance pose an asthma risk? Case report New!

Demir L. Does hyperbaric chamber attendance pose an asthma risk? Case report. Undersea Hyperb Med. 2024 Fourth Quarter; 51(4):387-391.

This report details a case study of a non-smoking 33-year-old female nurse who developed occupational asthma as an Inside Attendant (IA) in a hyperbaric chamber. The report analyzes the nurse's medical history, working environment, and potential causes. After beginning work in the hyperbaric chamber,
an IA experienced respiratory symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, and fatigue. Her symptoms improved during a break attending a hyperbaric nursing certification program but returned when she resumed work in the IA hyperbaric chamber. Spirometry confirmed airflow obstruction, and the IA was subsequently diagnosed with occupational asthma. As a result, the IA had to terminate their employment in the hyperbaric chamber. The literature review indicates that diving and hyperbaric exposure can negatively affect respiratory function, particularly in individuals susceptible to respiratory issues. We emphasize the necessity for further research on the effects of hyperbaric exposure on the respiratory system of IAs.

Keywords: hyperbaric oxygen therapy; inside attendant; lung function; occupational asthma

DOI: 10.22462/727