## Can You Fly on a Plane After Scuba Diving?
After an exciting day of exploring the underwater world, you may be wondering if it’s safe to fly on a plane. The answer is generally yes, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
### Nitrogen Levels
When you scuba dive, you breathe compressed air, which contains nitrogen. Nitrogen is a gas that can dissolve into your body’s tissues, including your blood and muscles.
When you ascend to the surface, the nitrogen in your body needs to be released slowly to avoid decompression sickness (DCS). DCS can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and paralysis.
### Flying and DCS
Flying on a plane after scuba diving increases the risk of DCS because the cabin pressure is lower than the pressure at sea level. This causes the nitrogen in your body to expand, which can lead to DCS if it’s not released slowly.
The risk of DCS is highest in the first 24 hours after diving. However, it can still occur up to 72 hours after diving.
### Guidelines for Flying After Scuba Diving
To reduce the risk of DCS, divers should follow these guidelines:
– **Wait 12 hours after diving before flying.** This gives your body time to release most of the nitrogen that you absorbed during the dive.
– **If you must fly within 12 hours of diving, ascend slowly.** This will give your body more time to release nitrogen.
– **Avoid multiple dives in a short period of time.** Multiple dives increase the amount of nitrogen that you absorb, which increases the risk of DCS.
– **Drink plenty of fluids before and after diving.** Fluids help to flush nitrogen out of your body.
– **If you experience any symptoms of DCS, seek medical attention immediately.**
### Exceptions
There are some exceptions to the guidelines above. Divers who are flying to a higher altitude than they dived to may need to wait longer than 12 hours before flying. Divers who are diving on nitrox may also need to wait longer before flying.
If you are unsure about whether or not it is safe for you to fly after scuba diving, consult with a doctor.
### Conclusion
Flying on a plane after scuba diving is generally safe, but it is important to follow the guidelines to reduce the risk of DCS. If you have any concerns, consult with a doctor before flying.
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