Diving physician in SA?

[cvonseggern]

I'm thinking about taking a SCUBA course but have some possible health issues that I need to get checked out first. Can anyone recommend a doctor in SA who is comfortable working with diving-related issues?

Thanks!

Chris

[Polkster13]

Actually, your best bet would be to contact DAN (Diver's Alert Network). They have an 800 number and have doctors on staff that can answer your questions. They may still ask you to see a doctor to get a medical release form but at least they can answer any questions you might have before making an appointment. They may also be able to give you a list of doctors in your area that are familar with scuba diving.

[AlexKilpatrick]

I had sinus issues when I went diving. I would get down to about 20 feet and it would feel like someone driving a nail into my sinuses. Incredible pain, but it would go away when I came back up. I solved it by taking non-drowsy sinus medication as a preventative measure every time I went diving. I never had any more problems.

I'm not a doctor. Ok, I am a doctor, but not a medical one. But I think the main concerns would be sinus/ear problems. Squeeze your nose and blow out through your nose. You should hear your ears kind of pop. If they don't definitiely get that checked because that is a key thing for scuba.

Also, if you are really bad in stressful situations (like if you freak out in an emergency), I would really recommend against scuba.

Alex

[cvonseggern]

The stress thing is a point to consider. I can see how my usual problems with overreacting in stressful situations could be very dangerous underwater. It's probably a moot point anyway because of some of my physical issues, but it's something I need to think about if I get the medical green light.

Thanks for the tip about DAN. I'll check it out and see if they can help me find out what I want to know.

Chris