## Why You Should Not Fly After Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world, but it’s important to be aware of the risks involved. One of the most important things to know is that you should not fly after scuba diving.
Why is it dangerous to fly after scuba diving?
When you scuba dive, you breathe compressed air. This air contains nitrogen, which is a gas that dissolves into your body tissues. The amount of nitrogen that dissolves into your body depends on several factors, including the depth of your dive, the length of your dive, and the amount of effort you exert.
When you ascend from a dive, the nitrogen in your body tissues starts to come out of solution. This process is called decompression. If you ascend too quickly, the nitrogen can form bubbles in your body, which can cause a condition called decompression sickness (DCS).
DCS can be a serious medical condition that can cause pain, paralysis, and even death. The symptoms of DCS can appear within minutes or hours of surfacing from a dive.
Flying after scuba diving can increase your risk of DCS because the cabin of an airplane is pressurized. This increased pressure can cause the nitrogen bubbles in your body to expand, which can lead to DCS.
How long should you wait before flying after scuba diving?
The amount of time you should wait before flying after scuba diving depends on several factors, including the depth of your dive, the length of your dive, and the amount of effort you exerted.
In general, you should wait at least 12 hours before flying after a single dive. If you have made multiple dives or if you have dived deeply, you may need to wait even longer.
What are the symptoms of DCS?
The symptoms of DCS can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Pain in the joints, muscles, or skin
Numbness or tingling
Weakness or paralysis
Fatigue
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness
Confusion
What should you do if you experience symptoms of DCS?
If you experience any of the symptoms of DCS, you should seek medical attention immediately. DCS can be a serious medical condition, and it is important to get treatment as soon as possible.
How can you prevent DCS?
There are several things you can do to prevent DCS, including:
Ascending slowly from dives
Making safety stops during your ascent
Avoiding flying after scuba diving
Drinking plenty of fluids
Getting enough rest
Eating a healthy diet
Conclusion
Scuba diving is a great way to explore the underwater world, but it’s important to be aware of the risks involved. One of the most important things to know is that you should not fly after scuba diving. By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of DCS.