This prospective observational study evaluated changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) during dry static apnea (STA) in breath-hold divers. Forty participants performed voluntary breath-holds while intraocular pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), heart rate, and blood pressure were measured at baseline, during apnea, and after apnea. The aim was to assess the magnitude and dynamics of IOP changes and their relationship to physiological parameters.
Breath-hold diving is associated with marked physiological changes, including hypoxemia, hypercapnia, bradycardia, and increases in blood pressure. The effect of prolonged breath-holding on intraocular pressure (IOP) remains insufficiently understood. This prospective observational study investigated changes in intraocular pressure during dry static apnea (STA) in adult breath-hold divers. Participants performed breath-holds in a supine position after a standardized resting period. Intraocular pressure was measured using a rebound tonometer (Icare Pro, Icare Finland Oy, Helsinki, Finland). Blood pressure was measured using an automated sphygmomanometer (Omron M6 Comfort, Omron Healthcare, Kyoto, Japan). Peripheral oxygen saturation and heart rate were continuously monitored using a pulse oximeter (Beurer PO 80, Beurer Healthcare, Germany). Measurements were obtained at baseline, during apnea and after resumption of breathing. The primary objective was to quantify changes in intraocular pressure during STA. Secondary objectives included assessment of physiological responses and analysis of their relationship with IOP changes.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
40
Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Olomouc, Olomouc
Olomouc, Czechia
Change in intraocular pressure during dry static apnea
Difference between baseline intraocular pressure and maximal intraocular pressure during apnea
Time frame: Baseline, during apnea and within 30 and 60 seconds after apnea
Blood pressure changes
Changes in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure during dry static apnea
Time frame: Before apnea, during apnea and within 60 and 120 seconds after apnea
Heart rate changes
Changes in heart rate during dry static apnea
Time frame: Baseline, during apnea and within 30 and 60 seconds after apnea
Peripheral oxygen saturation changes
Changes in peripheral oxygen saturation during dry static apnea
Time frame: Baseline, during apnea and within 30 and 60 seconds after apnea
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