## Why You Shouldn’t Fly a Plane After Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with the activity. One of the most serious risks is decompression sickness, which can occur when a diver ascends too quickly after being at depth.
Decompression sickness occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body’s tissues. These bubbles can block blood flow and cause tissue damage. Symptoms of decompression sickness can include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and dizziness. In severe cases, decompression sickness can be fatal.
One of the most important things to do to avoid decompression sickness is to ascend slowly after diving. The slower you ascend, the more time your body has to eliminate nitrogen bubbles. It is also important to avoid flying after diving. Flying at high altitudes can increase the risk of decompression sickness because the air pressure is lower at high altitudes. This can cause nitrogen bubbles to form in the body more easily.
## How Long Should You Wait to Fly After Scuba Diving?
The amount of time you should wait to fly after scuba diving depends on a number of factors, including the depth of your dive, the length of your dive, and your personal risk factors. In general, it is recommended to wait at least 12 hours after diving before flying. However, if you have made a deep dive or a long dive, you may need to wait longer.
## Who Should Not Fly After Scuba Diving?
Some people should not fly after scuba diving, regardless of the depth or length of their dive. These people include:
* **People who have experienced decompression sickness in the past**
* **People who are pregnant**
* **People who have heart or lung problems**
* **People who are taking medications that can increase the risk of decompression sickness**
## What Should You Do If You Experience Decompression Sickness?
If you experience any symptoms of decompression sickness after diving, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for decompression sickness typically involves recompression therapy, which is a process that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber.
## Conclusion
Scuba diving is a safe and enjoyable activity, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks. By following the guidelines for safe diving, you can help to reduce your risk of decompression sickness and other diving-related injuries.
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