Pacemakers
Pacemakers are incredibly helpful as they regulate the heart rhythm. If you have a pacemaker, find out what you need to know about your cardiovascular condition and fitness to dive.
Portuguese Man-of-War (Bluebottle)
Although colorful and jellyfish-like, Portuguese man-of-wars are most hazardous to divers while surfacing. Read more about this sea creature and what to do should you get stung.
Cone Snails
Don’t let the beautiful shells fool you — these gastropods are incredibly poisonous. Follow these protocols if you come across one. Always err on the side of caution.
O’Neill Grading System
The O’Neill grading system is a new way to grade the severity of middle-ear barotrauma (MEBT). The simplification of the system will provide more consistent diagnoses in patients.
Blue-Ringed Octopus
Although incidents are rare, blue-ringed octopi are very dangerous to humans. Read more about these creatures and procedures should you be attacked.
Sea Urchins
These spiny critters can be found all over the world. The primary hazard associated with them is when people come in contact with their spines. Learn proper wound care.
Facial Baroparesis
Facial baroparesis is a reversible paralysis of the facial nerve due to increased pressure in the middle ear when ascending from scuba diving. This tends to recur with repeated diving, but does go away after several hours.
Alternobaric Vertigo
Alternobaric vertigo happens when there is unequal pressure in each ear. Prevention and management while diving will help keep you safe.
Dialysis and Diving
Overview Dialysis is the common name for renal replacement therapy. This therapy is indicated when their kidneys suddenly stop working, or when there is a gradual decline in kidney function […]
Over-the-Counter Medications
It is very common to take an over-the-counter (OTC) medication without any thought to the side effects. Even common ones like antihistamines, decongestants, pain relievers, and motion sickness medications can have side effects. If you are considering diving while using one of these drugs, the side effects could be even more powerful than when on land and increase your risk of an injury.