Scuba diving is a relaxing pursuit with many mental and physical health benefits, but it’s not without risks. Some divers, due to age or existing health issues, can encounter problems in and out of the water. If you’ve had a heart attack, you may worry that you need to turn in your fins, but not necessarily. Scuba diving with a heart condition is possible.
Your primary focus after experiencing heart problems of any kind is to listen to your doctor and heed their advice. Expect to put away your diving gear for at least 12 months following a major cardiac event like a heart attack. You may be expected to make dietary changes as well as increase your physical fitness level. Surgery and medications could be required. Speak frankly and honestly with your doctor about your desire to return to scuba diving, and accept that you may have to make some major life changes.
Do some research on your own. Learning about the physical affects diving has on your body and your heart will give you greater knowledge of what you can handle. While health-related deaths in scuba diving are rare, heart health issues account for 20-30 percent of these. Following a heart-healthy diet and adopting a moderate physical fitness regimen will help your overall wellbeing. These are doubly important if you’ve already had a heart attack or suffer from heart disease, or if you have a family history of these complications.
Other life changes you may be expected to make before scuba diving with a heart condition are giving up smoking and limiting alcohol consumption. Following a heart attack, there may be permanent damage to the muscle tissue, affecting circulation.
Prior to diving again, have a full checkup and cardiac evaluation, including a stress test. You should report any symptoms or concerns to your doctor in order to give them a complete picture of your heart health. Don’t fudge the facts just to get back in the water. The risk isn’t worth your life.
Once you’re cleared to get back into your wetsuit, take things slow. Stick to warmer water environments and shallower dives. Check in with your cardiologist frequently and give yourself time to heal. The ocean will be waiting for your safe return.
