When should you not dive if you’re feeling unwell?

Diving while feeling unwell poses significant risks, as various health issues can increase the likelihood of complications underwater. Prioritizing one's safety is paramount in scuba diving, and this means taking any illness or discomfort seriously. Diving can place additional stress on the body, and conditions like respiratory issues, infections, or even mild ailments can deteriorate under pressure, potentially leading to dangerous situations such as decompression sickness or other diving-related injuries.

Choosing not to dive when feeling unwell allows for the assessment and recovery of one’s health, ensuring that when you do dive, you are fully fit for the physical demands of the activity. It’s essential for divers to be aware of their health and fitness before entering the water, considering any underlying conditions that might be exacerbated by diving.

Prioritizing safety ensures a better experience not just for the diver but for the whole dive team, as a healthy diver is less likely to require assistance and can fully engage in the diving experience without risk to themselves or others.