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October 13, 2010
http://www.usatoday.com/yourlife/health/2010-10-13-chilehealth13_ST_N.htm
USA Today (10/13, Szabo) reports that the 33 miners trapped underground in Chile may "face a variety of health problems after their rescue – both because of the dark, humid conditions underground, as well as from their risky ascent in a narrow capsule."
In addition to the risk of developing decompression sickness, they could also suffer from "drops or spikes in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and even panic attacks."
What's more, "constant darkness can contribute to depression and isolation, especially if it confuses the normal sleeping-waking cycle, says Vanderbilt University's Paul Ragan, a former Navy psychiatrist. At least three or four of the miners may experience post-traumatic stress disorder, based on typical rates of the condition after very stressful experiences, Ragan says."
Related Links:
- "Chile miners may face range of health problems," Liz Szabo, USA Today, October 12, 2010.
Posted by admin at October 13, 2010 08:08 PM