Can You SCUBA Dive With a Cold?
Lauren February 3rd, 2025 Posted In: Articles Tags: SCUBA
Sniffles or congestion got you down and out? If you’re hoping to dive and explore the depths of the underwater world, it’s natural to wonder whether a cold should keep you out of the water. The short answer of can you SCUBA dive with a cold? You really shouldn’t be diving while dealing with a cold or illness. A blocked nose, sinus congestion, or any related symptoms can make it difficult—and downright dangerous—to equalize pressure underwater, which is essential for a safe dive.
But don’t worry—there’s more to explore on this topic, including what happens if you dive with a cold, how long you should wait after recovery, and expert tips to ensure you’re ready for your next underwater adventure!
What Happens If You Dive With a Cold?
Diving with a cold might seem manageable, but the risks can far outweigh the rewards. One of the biggest concerns is your ability to equalize pressure. As you descend underwater, your body must adjust to increased pressure to avoid barotrauma, which occurs when there’s damage to your ears or sinuses due to unequal pressure.
When your sinuses or nasal passages are blocked, this equalization process becomes difficult, painful, or even impossible. You may experience extreme ear discomfort, dizziness, or in severe cases, permanent damage to your ears. Another common issue is sinus squeeze, which happens when trapped air cannot equalize properly, causing sharp pain or even bleeding.
Breathing is another concern. Diving already requires calm, steady breaths through a SCUBA regulator. When you’re congested, the strain on your respiratory system can make breathing feel labored and stressful, increasing the risk of fatigue or panic underwater.
Should You SCUBA Dive With a Cold?
To put it plainly—no, you shouldn’t go diving when you have a cold. Diving requires a fully functioning respiratory system and the ability to equalize pressure without strain. Even if your symptoms feel mild, there’s a chance that congestion could worsen during the dive due to the changes in pressure, turning an enjoyable outing into a painful or dangerous experience. And who in their right mind wants that?!
Here’s a quick overview of why diving with a cold is a bad idea:
- Impaired Pressure Equalization: Difficulty clearing your ears or sinuses can cause barotrauma.
- Increased Risk of Sinus or Ear Infections: Cold symptoms can trap bacteria, leading to post-dive complications.
- Breathing Difficulties: Congestion can restrict airflow, causing breathing to feel labored.
How Long Should You Wait to Dive After a Cold?
The length of time you should wait before diving after a cold depends on your recovery speed and the severity of your symptoms. Generally, it’s a good idea to wait at least seven days after your symptoms have completely cleared before attempting another dive. To determine whether you’re ready, ask yourself a few questions.
Can you equalize pressure effortlessly? A simple way to check is by performing a Valsalva maneuver, where you pinch your nose and gently blow to equalize your ears. If you feel pressure relief without pain, it’s a good sign.
Is your respiratory system clear? You should be free from any wheezing, congestion, or difficulty breathing.
Do you feel energetic? Diving requires stamina, so make sure you’re not experiencing fatigue.
Are you off all cold medications? You should not rely on decongestants to clear your airways for a dive, as they may wear off unexpectedly underwater.
Can You Dive While Taking Cold Medications?
Speaking of cold medication, some divers may think it’s okay to dive while using decongestants or antihistamines to manage cold symptoms. However, this approach is not typically recommended.
Decongestants may provide temporary relief, but they can wear off during your dive, causing a rebound effect where congestion returns suddenly. This could result in a dangerous situation if your ears or sinuses cannot equalize properly. On the other hand, antihistamines often cause drowsiness or impair your ability to react quickly, which is dangerous when diving.
The best approach is to wait until your body has naturally cleared the congestion and you no longer need medication to breathe easily.
Tips for Staying Dive-Ready
To avoid the disappointment of canceling a dive due to illness, focus on maintaining good health and preventing colds, especially before a dive trip. Here are just a few tips for getting dive-ready!
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus and keep your sinuses clear.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can irritate your respiratory system and increase the risk of congestion.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with sick individuals to reduce exposure to germs.
- Build a Strong Immune System: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get sufficient sleep to strengthen your body’s defenses.
- Plan Ahead: Monitor your health closely leading up to a dive trip to catch and manage any potential issues early.
Dive Safely: Wait Until You’re Fully Recovered
So, can you SCUBA dive with a cold? The answer is clear—it’s best to avoid it. Diving while congested can lead to serious health issues, including barotrauma, sinus/ear issues, and breathing difficulties. Waiting until you’re fully recovered ensures you can safely equalize pressure, breathe comfortably, and fully enjoy your underwater adventure.
Taking the time to recover may feel like a setback, but it’s a crucial part of being a responsible and prepared diver. When you’re healthy, clear-headed, and confident, you’ll have a much more enjoyable and safe dive. Stay patient, prioritize your health, and dive safely!
