# Why Do I Feel Dizzy After Scuba Diving?
Scuba diving is a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it can also come with some unwelcome side effects, such as dizziness. This is a common complaint among divers, and it can be caused by a number of factors.
## Causes of Dizziness After Scuba Diving
* **Decompression sickness (DCS)** is the most serious cause of dizziness after scuba diving. It occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body’s tissues during ascent. These bubbles can block blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms.
* **Nitrogen narcosis** is another cause of dizziness after scuba diving. It occurs when the diver breathes in too much nitrogen at depth. Nitrogen narcosis can cause a feeling of euphoria, as well as dizziness, confusion, and impaired judgment.
* **Oxygen toxicity** is a rare but serious cause of dizziness after scuba diving. It occurs when the diver breathes in too much oxygen at depth. Oxygen toxicity can cause seizures, coma, and even death.
* **Hypoxia** is a condition that occurs when the body does not receive enough oxygen. This can happen if the diver’s regulator malfunctions or if the diver ascends too quickly. Hypoxia can cause dizziness, nausea, and fainting.
* **Hyperventilation** is a condition that occurs when the diver breathes too quickly or deeply. This can cause a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and tingling in the hands and feet.
* **Motion sickness** is a common problem for divers, especially those who are new to the sport. It is caused by the movement of the boat or the water, and it can lead to dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
## Symptoms of Dizziness After Scuba Diving
The symptoms of dizziness after scuba diving can vary depending on the cause. Some of the most common symptoms include:
* Lightheadedness
* Vertigo
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Confusion
* Impaired judgment
* Seizures
* Coma
## Treatment of Dizziness After Scuba Diving
The treatment of dizziness after scuba diving depends on the cause. If the diver is experiencing decompression sickness, they will need to be treated with recompression therapy. This involves breathing pure oxygen in a hyperbaric chamber. Nitrogen narcosis and oxygen toxicity can also be treated with recompression therapy.
Hypoxia and hyperventilation can be treated with oxygen. Motion sickness can be treated with over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine or Bonine.
## Prevention of Dizziness After Scuba Diving
There are a number of things that divers can do to prevent dizziness after scuba diving. These include:
* Ascending slowly and making frequent stops
* Avoiding deep dives
* Breathing from a regulator that is in good working order
* Staying hydrated
* Eating a healthy diet
* Getting enough sleep
* Avoiding alcohol and drugs
If you experience dizziness after scuba diving, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions.
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