## Can You Go to Volcanoes National Park After Scuba Diving?
Yes, you can go to Volcanoes National Park after scuba diving, but there are a few things you should keep in mind.
### Nitrogen Levels
After scuba diving, your body is saturated with nitrogen. If you ascend to a higher altitude too quickly, the nitrogen can form bubbles in your blood and tissues, which can cause decompression sickness.
Volcanoes National Park is located at an altitude of over 4,000 feet. This means that if you scuba dive at sea level and then drive to the park, you will need to allow your body time to adjust to the change in altitude before you go hiking or engaging in other strenuous activities.
The general rule of thumb is to wait at least 12 hours after scuba diving before ascending to an altitude of more than 1,000 feet. However, if you are planning on doing any strenuous activity, such as hiking, you should wait even longer.
### Symptoms of Decompression Sickness
If you experience any of the following symptoms after scuba diving, you should seek medical attention immediately:
* Joint pain
* Muscle pain
* Fatigue
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Dizziness
* Confusion
* Paralysis
### How to Avoid Decompression Sickness
The best way to avoid decompression sickness is to follow the recommended guidelines for ascending after scuba diving. You should also:
* Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
* Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
* Get a good night’s sleep before going to the park.
* Listen to your body and rest if you are feeling tired.
### Other Considerations
In addition to the risk of decompression sickness, there are a few other things you should keep in mind if you are planning on going to Volcanoes National Park after scuba diving.
* The park is located in a remote area, so make sure you have plenty of food, water, and supplies.
* The weather in the park can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, snow, and cold temperatures.
* The park is home to a variety of wildlife, so be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid encounters with animals.
### Conclusion
With a little planning and preparation, you can safely enjoy Volcanoes National Park after scuba diving. Just be sure to follow the recommended guidelines for ascending after scuba diving and take precautions to avoid decompression sickness.