Medicinal Nicotine & Diving

[…] toxins other than nicotine (for example, carbon monoxide and oxidant gases) that might contribute to cardiovascular toxicity. Chronic smoking contributes to development of atherosclerosis, heart disease, cancer and premature death. […]

A left hand holds a cigarette. The arm attached to the hand is covered in tattoos.

Research & Outreach

[…] may create the perfect IPE scenario. Numerous internal factors, such as hypertension, other cardiac issues, cardiovascular disease and excessive hydration, may also increase the likelihood of experiencing IPE. Some people […]

The inside of a hyperbaric chamber is padded and no one is in it.

Effects of Aspirin on Diving

[…] medication. Even with a large body of evidence supporting aspirin use in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and some cancers, the risk of gastrointestinal and intracranial bleeding moderates its universal […]

A spilled bottle of aspirin lies on top of some medical charts

Mistake #1: Neglecting Health and Fitness

[…] email . Fitness Being a physically fit diver means that you have sufficient aerobic capacity, cardiovascular health and physical strength to meet the demands of the diving environment. Can you […]

Stacking the Deck

[…] making and are common triggers of dive accidents. Optimal preparation for diving should include strength and cardiovascular training at least three times a week throughout the year and fin-swimming training before the dive […]

Shirtless dive master leads a predive check with white board

Denial and Delayed Treatment 

[…] DCS if symptoms occur after a dive especially those symptoms that are neurologic deficit or cardiovascular instability. Do not delay care.  2. Immediately begin 100% oxygen when DCS is suspected   […]

Speak of the Spiny Devilfish

[…] the spines along their back are the danger. Their toxin causes intense pain, respiratory weakness, cardiovascular system damage, and convulsions or paralysis. It can sometimes lead to death, depending on […]

Red Spiny Devilfish

Underwater Images on a Single Breath

[…] dives, observing, “Extreme apneas as performed by elite breath-hold divers cause significant stress on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It should be noted that extreme breath-hold diving is a dangerous […]

Snorkeler takes photo of whale shark

Dive Medical Reference Books

[…] and experienced divers. The collection offers greater insight into topics such as ears and equalization, cardiovascular health, decompression sickness and hazardous marine injuries. These materials were developed from years of […]

Medical Emergencies in Remote Environments

[…] who is unconscious or who shows symptoms that may indicate a stroke or a seizure. Cardiovascular Emergencies Chest pain in an environment where emergency medical services are not readily available […]

Man and woman sit on beach and boop index fingers