Do I Need a Spirometry (Lung Function) Test for a PADI Diving Medical if I Have Asthma?
If you have asthma and are planning to get a PADI diving medical, you might be wondering whether a spirometry (lung function) test is required. The answer depends on several factors, including the severity of your asthma, your current symptoms, and the medical standards set by PADI. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know and explain how Motor Medicals can support you.
When Does PADI Require Spirometry?
PADI requires a spirometry test for divers who have a history of asthma or other respiratory conditions. Spirometry measures how much air you can breathe in and out and how quickly you can exhale. This test gives doctors a clear picture of your lung function and helps ensure that diving will be safe.
For individuals without asthma or lung conditions, a spirometry test is usually not needed. However, if you have any history of breathing problems, your PADI diving medical may include this test as a precaution.
How Asthma Changes the Medical Process
Having asthma doesn’t automatically prevent you from diving. Instead, it changes the way your medical is conducted. Doctors will carefully assess your lung function and the stability of your condition before approving you for diving.
At Motor Medicals, we review your medication, symptoms, and any recent flare-ups to determine whether spirometry or additional assessments are necessary. Our goal is to make the process as smooth as possible while prioritising your safety.
- Your asthma history, including severity and frequency of attacks
- Current medications and inhaler usage
- Lung function through spirometry if indicated
- Other health factors that could affect diving safety
Mild, Well-Controlled Asthma vs Active Symptoms
It’s important to understand the difference between mild, well-controlled asthma and active symptoms:
- Mild, well-controlled asthma: Occasional symptoms that are easily managed with an inhaler. Many divers in this category can receive clearance with minimal additional testing, though spirometry may still be recommended.
- Active or poorly controlled symptoms: Frequent wheezing, shortness of breath, or recent flare-ups require more detailed assessment. This may include spirometry, exercise testing, or consultation with a respiratory specialist.
Asthma is treated on a case-by-case basis, and a well-managed condition often allows for safe diving.
Reassurance: Asthma Does Not Mean You Cannot Dive
Many divers worry that asthma will automatically disqualify them. This is not the case. The key is how well your asthma is controlled. At Motor Medicals, we guide asthmatic divers through the correct process, which may involve spirometry or additional assessments to ensure safety. Non-asthmatic divers typically follow a simpler pathway, but both groups are given the care and attention they need.
What Motor Medicals Checks For
During your PADI diving medical, Motor Medicals checks:
- Your asthma history, including severity and frequency of attacks
- Current medications and inhaler usage
- Lung function through spirometry if indicated
- Other health factors that could affect diving safety
This thorough approach ensures that each diver is assessed individually. Asthma does not automatically prevent you from diving; rather, we make sure you follow the correct medical pathway.
Why Choose Motor Medicals
Motor Medicals specialises in PADI diving medicals for individuals with and without asthma. Our experienced doctors provide personalised assessments, including spirometry when necessary, to ensure you meet all diving requirements safely.
Contact Motor Medicals at 0161 241 9622 or visit motormedicals.com to schedule your PADI diving medical. Our diving medical service costs £95, which includes all assessments and spirometry if required. With Motor Medicals, you can dive safely and confidently.
Book your Medical Today
Book your medical today with Motor Medicals! Our expert doctors provide PADI diving medicals.
