Diabetes and becoming a PADI Divemaster...

[NetDoc]

Here is another question. This one is about diabetes and diving:

Can a diver with Diabetes ever become a PADI divemaster even with a Dr. physical release form and no history of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) while diving over 100 logged dives?

[Ber Rabbit]

I was told that one of our local shops (PADI) has a diabetic DM who uses an insulin pump.
Ber

[Tienuts]

My girlfriend is an insulin dependant diabetic. She wears an insulin pump and has been diving for years.

In the 4 years I have known her and been diving with her, she has never had a hypoglycemic event, in or out of the water. We have never had to cancel a dive, or end one early as a result of her diabetes. She is a MSD and has over 100 dives, with many in the 100-130 ft range. She excerises on a regular basis. She constantly checks her blood sugar and is very aware of her insulin/caloric intake, as well as her body in general.

I see no reason why she could not be a DM if she wanted to be.

[ppo2_diver]

I'm a diabetic, use an insulin pump, and am an instructor.

[diverdown247]

I'm glad to see that someone posted this up. Thanks NetDoc!

It's another testament that almost any factor that may make a person feel partially disabled (for lack of a better term) can be overcome to enjoy some of the interesting aspects of life. I'll be sure to add this information to my problem solving database.

[Flea Dog]

I'm another diabetic DM.

Is it safe?

Know yourself, know your disease, know the issues of diving with the disease. I plan ahead, know the warning signs, and listen to my mind and body. Never had an issue.

Flea Dog

[Melicertes]

My wife's a very well controlled type 1 diabetic and an instructor. The issue is simply stable control of blood glucose levels. We both keep a very vigilant eye on her glaucometer readings but she's been doing just fine. With 1. Healthy Diet, 2. Frequent Exercise, and 3. Proper control there's no reason we have found to consider her being diabetic to be any reason to stop diving thus far. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping a regular checkup schedule with her doc has worked for us.

Not everyone is well controlled, however, so I'd suggest getting a very clear O.K. from a hyperbarric physician before anyone starts any form of scuba training. Confirming that O.K. frequently with the doc is also prudent after he/she has analyzed control statistics. Also be sure to keep a good supply of emergency insulin (always kept cool) and glucose available wherever/whenever you dive just to be sure you can deal with emergencies if they arise, and finally, never dive if you do not feel 110% up to it (I know this goes for all divers, but it goes double for diabetics IMHO)

[bane51031]

As a home health nurse of 16 years, I can attest that most individuals with Diabetes have a good handle on their illness.
For the most part they are very knowledgable and responsible, however I have had some clients that are the direct opposite but, those are not the people who would partake in diving or any other physical activity.

[scubajim 1]

At this time as I understand it as far as PADI is concerned diabetes is a contra-indicator at the pro level. I think this is most likely because of the issues with hypoglycemia. If I were an instructor with PADI I sure wouldn't mention diabeties to them.
That being said DAN has a very good webinar on the subject. Just go to their site. It is about an hour long but worth every minute.

http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/tr....asp?course=31

[scubajim 1]

and yes most diabetic divers are extremely careful thoughtful divers...its part of their lifestyle.