The desire to dive is common among people from all kinds of backgrounds, and among people suffering from myriad diseases. Here, we’ll take a look at the challenges Marfan’s Syndrome presents, and we will talk about whether or not someone with this illness should ever consider SCUBA diving.
Understanding Marfan Syndrome
Marfan Syndrome was almost always fatal before certain surgical procedures were introduced. One of the most challenging clinical features Marfan’s Syndrome presents is aortic aneurysm formation and subsequent aortic aneurysm dissection due to the presence of abnormal proteins within pulmonary system. The disorder is basically one that affects connective tissues – the tissues your body needs to maintain a strong, stable physical structure.
Not all cases of Marfan’s Syndrome are exactly alike, despite the fact that this disorder is caused by a genetic defect within the Fibrillin-1 gene. While many sufferers have very long arms and legs, and are very tall, not all suffer from pheumothorax, and not all suffer from eye problems, including dislocated lenses and cataracts.
The biggest challenge to people with Marfan Syndrome is that physical stress can cause serious damage to the aorta, with some sufferers requiring surgery to replace both the aortic root and the aortic valve. For this reason, people with Marfan Syndrome are normally advised to refrain from participation in contact sports.
Is Diving Possible for Someone with Marfan Syndrome?
Pulmonary abnormalities are seen in approximately ten percent of Marfan Syndrome patinets, with the most common being emphysema and spontaneous pneumothorax. The same genetic defect that causes pulmonary abnormalities makes it extremely dangerous for anyone with Marfan Syndrome to dive. Some common problems include restricted lung function caused by physical manifestations of the disorder, including a caved in chest or hunchback. When positive pressure ventilation is applied, the risk of pneumothorax – both spontaneous and tension types – increases greatly.
There are many reports of cases in which Marfan Syndrome patients suffered spontaneous pneumothorax. Some of these have been associated with minor pressure changes, including slight changes in altitude while mountain climbing at a modest pace, and while flying in an aircraft during minimal aircraft pressurization changes. Scuba diving with standard air, then, is seen as an extreme hazard – in fact, the pressure changes that take place between the first and last eight feet of a dive are significant enough to cause serious harm.
In addition, people with Marfan Syndrome have a tendency toward exhibiting a physical manifestation of the illness. Known as Nasal Airway Restricion (NAR), it can cause sleep apnea. Additional difficulties include increased potential for sinus squeeze, tympanic membrane rupture, and middle ear barotrauma.
If you suffer from Marfan Syndrome, you may of course pass a dive physical in the event your case is a very mild one. As the lungs tend to be affected, though, and as a chest X-ray is part of the standard fitness to dive physical, it is very likely that you will be advised to refrain from SCUBA diving for your own safety. If this is the case, discuss with your doctor whether you might be permitted to snorkel, so long as you take extreme care. Snorkeling is less challenging than diving, and there are no pressure changes associated. Be sure to think of your own health as you make this determination, since your life, or the life of your friend or loved one with Marfan Syndrome could be at stake.