Throwing Up Underwater

It came to my attention recently that scuba course materials don't always mention throwing up underwater, coughing, or "hocking a loogie."  At some point it inevitably comes up during the course, but it is not usually "in the brochure" and you don't often see demonstrations in the videos.

Maybe it just isn't glamorous- who knows?

Anyway,  as a diver since 1993, I can honestly say, I have never vomited underwater, but I have seen a few folks offshore that "fed the fish" while diving. I believe knowing what to do if you are sick underwater is essential, because you can't swim to the surface every time you need to cough, clear your throat, or vomit.  Remember you must slowly ascend from every dive!

By the way, it is considered bad form to take video of your vomiting dive buddy and the resulting swarm of fish that it attracts, but I digress....

There are many ways to avoid seasickness in the first place like using motion sickness medication before you leave the dock whether you think you will need it or not. The last guy I saw blowing chunks above and below the water was a merchant marine, so just because you sail or work on boats does not mean you will never be seasick.  Avoid large, heavy, greasy, or spicy meals.  Staring at the horizon, staying in the center of the boat, avoiding exhaust fumes or other odors, and not going below deck are other good ways to avoid being seasick.  Being well rested and having a positive mental attitude can also help.  My favorite  method is to visualize the motion of the boat in my mind, so my brain can make sense of it.  I swear this is helpful.  My other favorite is eating ginger snap cookies, which was my mother's remedy.

The good news is that most people who feel sick on the boat will feel just fine in the water when the rocking of the boat stops. So one way to deal with seasickness is to get into the water quickly after the boat anchors.

If you do not take proper precautions and do need to vomit underwater, then what do you do?

Simply hold the regulator and mask in place and throw up through the regulator.  Just remember, when we cough or throw up we breathe in sharply afterward as a reflex, so it is vital to keep the regulator in to avoid inhaling water as best you can.

Material will flow out of the regulator exhaust valve and hopefully the valve will then close normally to keep water from entering during the inhalation reflex.  It is possible for debris to lodge in the exhaust valve and keep it open, so as with any first breath underwater, make it a tentative cautious breath.  If the exhaust valve is stuck open and the regulator breathes wet (allows some water in), you can always switch to your alternate regulator to end the dive.

Use the regulator purge valve if needed to clear the regulator of debris, just remember to seal the opening with your tongue.  You do not want to inhale vomit or water.

Though it isn't ideal; coughing, sneezing,  hiccuping, or clearing your throat,  and vomiting can all be accomplished underwater if done cautiously.

Sorry for the yucky topic, but it is essential information.  I hope this was helpful.