Can You Skydive With Asthma?

Ever dreamed of soaring through the sky, feeling the rush of the wind against your face, and experiencing the ultimate adrenaline boost? For many, skydiving is the adventure of a lifetime – but what if you have asthma or another respiratory condition? Can you still take the leap? The answer might surprise you. Whether you are an eager adventurer looking for a new thrill or someone hoping to get their skydiving license, we’re here to help you make the best decision when it comes to skydiving with respiratory issues.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. These symptoms can be triggered by various factors, including physical exertion, cold air, allergens and stress – all of which can potentially occur during a skydive.

Can You Skydive if You Have Asthma?

Yes, you can skydive with asthma, but it requires careful preparation and consultation with your healthcare provider. We are pleased to say that many people with well-controlled asthma have successfully completed skydives without any complications.

The Impact of Skydiving on Asthma

It is no secret that skydiving involves exposure to high altitudes, rapid changes in pressure and intense adrenaline rushes – all of which can pose challenges for someone with asthma. Some people do experience a difficulty in breathing while on their skydive; whether it is due to 120 mph cold wind blasting their faces, the nerves, or something else – it is something to be aware of before attempting to skydive, especially if you already deal with shortness of breath while on the ground. Understanding how your condition may react to these factors is a crucial part of determining whether skydiving is a good idea for you and helps you prepare should you decide to take the leap.

Asthma Skydiving Tips

If you have asthma and are considering skydiving, there are several precautions you should take. Please keep in mind that we are skydivers, not physicians, so these tips should only be used as a guide – follow the medical advice of the doctor aware of your condition:

1. Consult with Your Physician: Before booking your skydive, be sure to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider. They can assess your asthma control, determine if skydiving is a good idea for you and discuss an asthma action plan.
2. Communicate with Us: Once you’ve been cleared, please notify our team about your asthma and any specific accommodations recommended by your physician. Informing us of your conditions helps us prepare for your skydive and gives us a chance to provide additional support once you arrive.
3. Use Your Inhaler: Keep in mind that you will not have access to your inhalers during the airplane ride to altitude, the jump itself, or the walk back afterwards. Therefore, (if recommended by your doctor) it might be a good idea to use your inhaler before the jump to reduce the risk of symptoms during the skydive. Keep your inhaler handy and inform your instructor of where it is, just in case!
4. Prepare for Environmental Triggers: Cold air, humidity, and sudden weather changes can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Keep a close eye on the weather and choose the right conditions to make skydiving a breeze for your lungs. We recommend choosing a day with mild temperatures and stable weather.

Prioritizing Your Safety at Oklahoma Skydiving Center

At Oklahoma Skydiving Center, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our participants above all else – especially for those who have medical conditions including those with asthma and other respiratory issues. Our experienced staff is trained to make safety-conscious decisions in emergency situations and have protocols in place to ensure a secure skydiving experience.

We encourage open communication, so please feel free to discuss any concerns or special accommodations with our team. Our goal is to make your skydiving adventure as safe and memorable as possible!

Other Respiratory Concerns: Who Should Not Go Skydiving?

While many individuals with asthma can skydive with proper precautions, there are certain respiratory conditions that may make skydiving a little too risky:

1. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis, severely limits airflow and can make breathing difficult even at rest. The high altitudes, rapid pressure changes, and physical exertion involved in skydiving could pose significant risks for those with COPD.
2. Emphysema: This condition causes damage to the air sacs in the lungs, reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches your bloodstream. The physical strain of skydiving can exacerbate this condition, leading to serious complications.
3. Collapsed Lung (Pneumothorax): If you have a history of collapsed lung, skydiving is generally not recommended. The changes in air pressure during the jump can increase the risk of another pneumothorax, which could be life-threatening.
4. Uncontrolled or Severe Asthma: If your asthma is not well-managed, or if you frequently experience severe symptoms, skydiving may not be for you. It is crucial to have your asthma under control before considering skydiving.
5. Other Severe Respiratory Conditions: Any other respiratory condition that significantly impairs lung function may make skydiving too dangerous. Always, always consult with a healthcare provider to determine if your specific condition is compatible with skydiving. 

Got the ‘okay’ from your doctor? We would be happy to have you! Contact us if it’d be a good idea to discuss your condition ahead of time, or go ahead and book your skydive online. Blue skies, y’all!