Experiencing difficulty breathing while diving is a serious situation that requires a measured and calm response. Ascending calmly while monitoring buoyancy is essential for several reasons.
First, maintaining control of buoyancy during ascent is crucial to prevent rapid ascents, which can lead to serious injuries such as decompression sickness or barotrauma. By ascending slowly and monitoring buoyancy, you can adjust your rate of ascent and ensure you do not exceed safe limits—typically no faster than 30 feet per minute. This approach allows your body to safely adapt to the changes in pressure, reducing the risk of injury.
Additionally, a calm ascent gives you time to assess the situation and respond appropriately. It allows for the possibility of performing necessary safety measures, like using a safety stop or checking for any equipment issues that could be contributing to your breathing difficulty.
In contrast, rapidly ascending without monitoring buoyancy can lead to life-threatening conditions due to the rapid change in pressure, while holding your breath can cause lung overexpansion injuries. Signaling for help without first checking your gear does not address the immediate issue of difficulty breathing and may delay your response in a critical situation.
Overall, a calm and controlled ascent that prioritizes safety and awareness of buoyancy is the correct course