What is Trachea Squeeze?
Trachea squeeze is a condition that can occur during freediving, in which the lungs collapse due to the increased pressure of the water. This can cause serious health problems, including death.
Trachea squeeze is also known as pneumothorax, and it occurs when the pressure of the water on the chest cavity is greater than the atmospheric pressure. This can cause the lungs to collapse, which can lead to serious health problems, including death.
Symptoms of Trachea Squeeze
Trachea squeeze is a condition that can occur while freediving, in which the trachea (windpipe) is compressed due to high external water pressure. This can lead to difficulty breathing and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening.
- Symptoms of trachea squeeze include:
- Feeling of tightness in the chest
- Difficulty breathing
- A high pitched sound when inhaling
- Pain in the neck or jaw
- Bluish skin coloration
Causes of Trachea Squeeze
There are two main causes of trachea squeeze from freediving:
- descent at too steep an angle, and
- holding your breath for too long.
The first cause, descending at too steep an angle, is more common among beginner freedivers. When you descend at a steep angle, the water pressure increases more rapidly than if you were descending at a more gradual angle. This can cause the trachea to collapse, since it is not strong enough to withstand the increased pressure.
The second cause, holding your breath for too long, is more common among experienced freedivers. When you hold your breath for a long time, the carbon dioxide in your blood starts to build up. This can cause the blood vessels in your lungs to constrict, which can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the lungs. This can eventually cause the trachea to collapse, since it is not getting enough blood flow.
Preventing Trachea Squeeze
Trachea squeeze is an injury that can occur while freediving. It is caused by the sudden increase in pressure on the airway, which can collapse the trachea. This can cause difficulty breathing and can be dangerous if not treated immediately.
There are a few ways to prevent trachea squeeze. First, make sure that you equalize the pressure in your airway before descent. Second, descend slowly and evenly to avoid sudden changes in pressure. Finally, if you feel any pain or discomfort in your airway, stop descending and ascend to the surface slowly and carefully. If you experience any symptoms of trachea squeeze, seek medical attention immediately.
Treating Trachea Squeeze
Trachea squeeze, also known as tracheal compression, is a condition that can occur while freediving. The condition is caused by the water pressure on the trachea, which is the Windpipe. This can cause the trachea to collapse, preventing air from reaching the lungs. If not treated immediately, trachea squeeze can be fatal.
There are several methods of treatment for trachea squeeze, but the most common and effective method is to resurface as quickly as possible and breathe deeply. This will help to re-inflate the lungs and relieve the pressure on the trachea. If you are unable to surface quickly, you can try pinching your nose and blowing gently to equalize the pressure in your head and lungs.
If you experience trachea squeeze, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Trachea squeeze can cause serious damage to your lungs and other organs if not treated properly.