## Can Scuba Diving When You Smoke Pot Be Dangerous?
Scuba diving is a popular recreational activity that allows people to explore the underwater world. However, there are some risks associated with scuba diving, including the risk of decompression sickness (DCS). DCS occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body’s tissues due to a rapid ascent from depth. These bubbles can cause pain, paralysis, and even death.
Smoking pot can increase the risk of DCS for several reasons. First, pot can cause dehydration, which can lead to a reduction in blood plasma volume. This can make it more difficult for the body to dissolve nitrogen bubbles. Second, pot can impair coordination and judgment, which can increase the risk of making mistakes while diving. Third, pot can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can also increase the risk of DCS.
For these reasons, it is generally not recommended to smoke pot before or during scuba diving. If you do choose to smoke pot, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take precautions to minimize the chances of developing DCS.
### Precautions to Minimize the Risk of DCS When Smoking Pot
If you do choose to smoke pot before or during scuba diving, there are several precautions you can take to minimize the risk of DCS:
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after your dive.
Avoid rapid ascents. Ascend slowly and make frequent stops to allow your body to adjust to the change in pressure.
Be aware of your limits. Don’t dive beyond your level of experience and training.
Get a physical exam before diving. This will help to ensure that you are healthy enough to dive.
Tell your dive buddy that you have smoked pot. This will help them to keep an eye on you and to assist you if you need help.
### Other Risks of Scuba Diving While High
In addition to the risk of DCS, there are other risks associated with scuba diving while high:
Impaired judgment. Pot can impair your judgment and make it more difficult to make good decisions while diving. This can increase the risk of accidents.
Increased risk of drowning. Pot can make you less aware of your surroundings and less able to respond to emergencies. This can increase the risk of drowning.
Increased risk of decompression sickness. As mentioned above, pot can increase the risk of DCS. This is a serious condition that can lead to permanent disability or death.
### Conclusion
Smoking pot before or during scuba diving is not recommended. There are several risks associated with this practice, including the risk of DCS, impaired judgment, and increased risk of drowning. If you do choose to smoke pot, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take precautions to minimize the chances of developing DCS.