Diaphragm Function and Diver Endurance

Purpose of this Study

We are doing this study to find out if a new method to train the breathing muscles is effective. We want to know if this training can improve how well people can move and exercise underwater while connected to oxygen (i.e., while diving).

Specifically, we want to test whether or not these methods can increase personal endurance and reduce excessive rise in blood carbon dioxide during underwater exercise in divers. We will also look at how oxygen and carbon dioxide enters and leaves blood cells and how it affects exercise capacity.

Who Can Participate?

Eligibility

People ages 18-45 who:
- Are in good general health
- Do not smoke
- Do not have heart or lung disease
- Are not pregnant

For more information please contact the study team at DIAPHRAGMstudy@duke.edu.

Age Range

18-45

Sex/Genders

Male (cisgender)
Female (cisgender)
Non-binary or gender fluid
Transgender male
Transgender female
Looking for Healthy Participants
Yes

What is Involved?

In this study, we will test the effect of daily breathing muscle training on breathing muscle performance and underwater exercise endurance during a dive to 55 feet of sea water. Breathing muscle training will require 30 minutes every day, 5 days per week for 4 weeks. During this training, each participant will breathe either air or a very low dose of carbon monoxide, which is safe and believed to improve muscle function.

Before and after the endurance test (which usually takes around 2 hours), there will be some tests to measure breathing capabilities. During the endurance test blood samples will be obtained.

Study participants are paid for their time.

Locations

Duke University Hospital

Visit Timing

Weekdays

Compensation

Yes

Spanish Materials Available

No

Study Details

Full Title

Diaphragm Function, Chemosensitivity and Endurance in Exercising Divers

Principal Investigator

Richard
Moon

Protocol Number

PRO00107090

NCT ID

NCT04679402

Phase

I/II

Enrollment Status

OPEN TO ACCRUAL