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The Danger of Scuba Diving with a sinus infection

Let’s talk about the dangers of diving with a sinus infection or cold. It’s an important topic and one most divers never think of until they are faced with the situation.

When you dive, the water pressure increases as you descend. In order to equalize the pressure in your ears and sinuses, you need to clear them by swallowing, yawning, or using the Valsalva maneuver. If you have a sinus infection or cold, the excess mucus and inflammation will make it difficult or even impossible to equalize properly.

Why you should never dive with a sinus infection or cold

  1. Risk of Barotrauma
    Failure to equalize pressure in the ears and sinuses can result in barotrauma, which is a painful condition that can cause permanent damage to the ears, sinuses, and even the lungs.
  2. Increased Risk of Dizziness
    Sinus infections and colds can cause dizziness, which can be dangerous when diving. Dizziness can lead to disorientation and increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
  3. Difficulty Breathing
    Sinus infections and colds can also make it difficult to breathe properly. When you’re diving, it’s important to breathe normally and not hold your breath, as this can lead to lung injuries and even death.

Wrap Up

Each dive is a new adventure, but one you should embark on thoughtfully. Diving with a sinus infection is a bad idea all around. If you wakeIf you aren’t feeling in tip-top shape, you best bet may be to sit out a dive or two until you feel better. Whether you are diving a quarry, off of a dive boat, or even a shore dive like the beautiful Blue Heron Bridge, a good rule of thumb is that if you have to take over-the-counter sinus medication to be able to breath, don’t dive. Period.

Diving healthy is the only way to dive confidently.

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