Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Safety and injury prevention measures when scuba diving

Medical expert of the article

Pediatric orthopedist, pediatrician, traumatologist, surgeon
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

Scuba diving is a relatively safe activity for healthy, properly trained and educated individuals. There are diving safety courses offered by national diving organizations.

trusted-source[ 1 ], [ 2 ], [ 3 ]

Safety precautions when diving

The risk of barotrauma can be reduced by actively equalizing the various air spaces, including the mask (blowing air from the nose into the mask) and the middle ear (yawning, swallowing, or performing the Valsalva maneuver). Divers should avoid holding their breath and breathe normally during ascent, which should be no faster than 0.5 to 1 foot per second, a rate that allows gradual elimination of N2 and emptying of air-filled spaces (e.g., lungs, paranasal sinuses). Current recommendations for additional equalization also include a 3-5 minute decompression stop at 4.6 m (15 ft). In addition, divers should avoid air transport for 15 to 18 hours after a dive.

Divers should be aware of and avoid certain conditions that make diving difficult (e.g., poor visibility, strong underwater currents). Low water temperatures are especially dangerous due to the risk of rapid hypothermia, which can lead to rapid loss of mental acuity and dexterity, or fatal arrhythmia in susceptible individuals. Diving alone is not recommended.

Consumption of any amount of alcohol or drugs before diving can have unpredictable and unexpected consequences at depth and should be avoided. Prescribed medications rarely interfere with scuba diving, but if the medication was prescribed to treat a medical condition that contraindicates scuba diving, it is best to avoid the latter.

Contraindications to scuba diving

Since scuba diving involves high levels of exertion, divers should not suffer from cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases and should have an above-average oxygen metabolism level. Scuba diving is contraindicated in diseases that may impair consciousness, alertness, and criticality. If any diseases raise doubts as possible contraindications to scuba diving, a consultation with a recognized expert is necessary.

Special contraindications to scuba diving

Medical contraindications to swimming Examples of diseases and side effects
Lung diseases Active asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, history of spontaneous pneumothorax
Cardiovascular diseases History of ventricular arrhythmias, coronary artery bypass grafting, heart failure, coronary artery disease
Mental illnesses Panic and phobia
Organic diseases Irreducible inguinal hernia
Neurological diseases Convulsions, fainting
Metabolic diseases Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, overweight
Isolated cavities in the body (inability to equalize pressure) Lung cysts, ruptured eardrum, upper respiratory tract infection, allergic rhinitis
Pregnancy Increased incidence of congenital malformations and fetal death
Poor physical fitness
Severe gastroesophageal reflux Aggravation due to weakening of the action of gravity on the abdomen during immersion
Children under 10 years old
Congenital aerophagia Gastrointestinal tract distension upon ascent due to swallowing compressed air at depth

trusted-source[ 4 ], [ 5 ]


The iLive portal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
The information published on the portal is for reference only and should not be used without consulting a specialist.
Carefully read the rules and policies of the site. You can also contact us!

Copyright © 2011 - 2025 iLive. All rights reserved.