high blood pressure and diving?

[wol cruiser]

I have been recently diagnosed with high blood pressure and I am only 39, I am now on medication but was wondering if it is okay to scuba dive in this condition? Would apreciate any advise.

[TrqoisWtrs]

I have a friend who has high BP and he told me that he refrained from taking his medication when diving. Since my husband was his buddy, I didn't think that was a safe thing to do, so I emailed DAN. (I think this info is okay to post?)

 

Though obviously you should check with your own doc too.:)

 

 

_________________________

Thank you for your e-mail and membership support. In general dive medicine professionals recommend that individuals take their antihypertensive medicines as they would normally whether diving or not. There are no known complications with the majority of antihypertensive medicines and diving. Also physiologically it is prudent to maintain blood pressure at normal levels. When any of us who dive are submerged in water there is an increase in blood pressure. This is known and expected. If an individual enters the water with an already elevated blood pressure submersion will further increase blood pressure and may reach a potentially serious level. In the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section on our web-site, the cardiovascular section has information regarding antihypertensive medicines and diving. If we can be any further assistance do not hesitate to contact DAN.

http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/medical/faq/index.asp

Divers Alert Network

Marty McCafferty, EMT-P DMT-A

DAN, Medical Information Specialist

Department of Anesthesiology

Duke University Medical Center

[wol cruiser]

Thank you very much for info. I will definately be talking to my Doctor before I go but I was just curious if anyone had info thank you.

[Califcat]

I have spoke to my doctor and she said that it is okay to dive and take my high blood pressure medication as prescribed.

 

You shouldn't have any problems...but always best to check with your own doctor.

[Dive Master]

I have both mild hypertension and diabetes, both treated by medication.My doctor is a diver and has cleared me to dive. He sees no reason to deprive me of a sport I love.I am at the local lake every weekend getting my nitrogen fix.I am getting older but I understand and accept the risk involved.As for endangering a buddy, I do mostly solo dives---just don't won't the hassle anymore of babysitting someone I don't know and trust.

[biziasabee]

I have hbp but it is controlled with medication - never any problems diving but do consult with your own doctor. Have fun

[theump]

I also have High Blood Pressure and had no problem diving with the meds I take. But I did have to go to tmy doctor and have him fill out a paper that I got from a diving site, cannot remember which one but dive master or some of the scuba divers on here can direct you to it. The operator I had checked out the docotrs information beofre I could get on the boat. It is always best to have the papers then get there and find out you need them.

 

The Ump

John

[mystkittsdivebuddy]

I have been recently diagnosed with high blood pressure and I am only 39, I am now on medication but was wondering if it is okay to scuba dive in this condition? Would apreciate any advise.

 

Having high blood pressure does not mean you cannot dive. I have taught a number of students with high blood pressure, and if it is properly controlled, is usually not a problem.

The absolutely essential thing is that you are thoroughly checked out by a doctor who will give you a written health clearance. You need to carry this with you when you book a dive trip. I would advise emailing a copy to the dive resort with your booking.

Both Padi and Naui have specific forms you can download (or pm me).

There are many way of enjoying Scuba Diving, stick to the less strenuous ones and enjoy yourself.

Have fun.

[dond3131]

I have been recently diagnosed with high blood pressure and I am only 39, I am now on medication but was wondering if it is okay to scuba dive in this condition? Would apreciate any advise.

Not to change the subject and I mean this in the nicest possible way,39 is young to have HBP and have you talked to your doctor about what is causing it in the first place?Maybe some small changes will help to lower it without medication and then you will be able to dive without the extra worry.JMHO

[satxdiver]

I first started exhibiting hypertension when I was in my early 20's and have lived with it the rest of my life so far. My oldest boy was diagnosed at age 31. My father was also diagnosed with hypertension. It strikes the very young as well as the old. Primary hypertension which includes about 90% of all cases has no known medical cause. It can be controlled some by lifestyle changes but usually medicine is required.

 

I take an ACE inhibitor. My doctor has always cleared me for diving. I really do not discuss it with any dive operators who are not medically qualified. I trust my medical practitioner and DAN to tell me when to stop diving. I have never had a problem.