Immediate neurological effects of diving to a depth of 360 metres

Abstract

Eighteen divers performed a simulated dive to a depth of 360 metres of seawater breathing a mixture of helium and oxygen. Clinical neurological examinations and neurophysiological tests were performed before and after the dives. Two divers had mild ataxic signs and changed electronystagmography after the dive, and one had impaired vibration sense in one lower extremity. Abnormal EEGs with slow waves and sharp potentials, seen primarily in the temporal regions, occurred in 2 divers. No changes were found in the magnetic resonance imaging brain scans. The divers with evidence of previous central nervous system injury, or a history of unconsciousness or previous decompression sickness seemed more likely to develop neurological signs after these deep dives. This study shows that deep diving may induce immediate neurological changes. We recommend that future deep divers have a neurological examination and 2 separate EEGs included in their medical examinations.