MEDICAL ASPECTS OF SPORT DIVING

Medical issues in sport diving include illnesses that are caused by di ving. and medical disorders that compromise safety. Cerebral air embol ism and decompression sickness of the brain and spinal cord can result from diving. Sport divers may manifest a spectrum of symptoms from ai r embolism, which can range from unconsciousness to minimal symptoms, which include fatigue, personality change, poor concentration, irritab ility, and changes in vision. The physician must search for these mino r symptoms in divers who are suspected of pulmonary barotrauma. Medica l disorders of concern in diving include diseases of the lungs, the he art, the brain, and the endocrine system, particularly diabetes. Other factors involved in diving safety are exercise capacity and training. Clinical practice standards usually prohibit diving by individuals wh o have a seizure disorder that requires continuous medication. In the United States, we will not approve diving for individuals who have ins ulin-dependent diabetes or severe asthma. Some divers can return to di ving after myocardial infarction or bypass surgery if they demonstrate good exercise tolerance and no ischemia on a graded exercise test, wh ich simulates the physical activity needed for safe diving.