What gas is a swim bladder filled with?

A swim bladder or flotation device, or also commonly called a floating bladder. The term is often used in swimming pools but it can be used for swimming water (such as water, ocean or river) , or for anything that moves a large volume of water through a small surface area (such as boats, tubes or trains) .

In many cases, a diver with a swim bladder finds the amount of water that can be held to be more than enough, so they often call it a flotation device. The idea is that the fluid that is carried along with the body through the water is so concentrated that the extra volume is not enough to cause damage.

What happens to a swim bladder?
The main thing that happens is that the water moves with the body; the body maintains the right flow of water. It's like holding a lot of water in your hand, and you can move water around.

Once you start to notice signs of dryness, you may see water accumulating in a place that does not deserve it, such as a small crevice or hole. If the hole is large, it's a sign the water is too dry. If the drain seems to be leaking, you should take something like a pump to the drain to see if there's any leakage.

If you notice that a swimming bladder is leaking, it's most effective not to use it at all. Most people don't know it's a hazard until it's too late, usually after long periods of not drinking or using it for the first time.

What should I learn about using a swim bladder?
The main thing to know when using a swim bladder is to keep checking and keeping the water moving. Your first reaction might be to push it through a hole in the sink or tub, but if you find a leak, quickly rinse that area to help prevent problems.

Sometimes a hole in the sink or tub can be a good sign that there's a leak somewhere to consider. Remember, it's not usually enough to have the water move. Also, always try to use the bathroom when you're out of the water, in the bathroom before your pool, or in any place where the water might be a little murky.

This will help you remember that the flotation is the problem, not the water. If you can't figure it out, ask your physician or swim instructor for help. If you feel like you may have a condition or problem that could be dangerous, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

For more information on pool safety, please see WATER SAFETY-