Scuba Diving with history of DVT

[scubakk]

Thank you for the warm welcome to the ScubaBoard! I have just started my SCUBA diving classes with my husband. A few years ago I had a DVT (deep vein thrombosis - AKA blood clot in my leg) and subsequently was diagnosed with a blood disorder that predisposes me to clots. I am not on any anti-coagulant medication, I just have to avoid doing activities that can cause clotting (flying long distances without moving, being bed-ridden, etc.). I read in my Open Water Diver handbook for my class that there can be cases of the nitrogen not being released from the body as quickly as normal people if you have had a history of a blood clotting disorder. I am not sure if that means a hemophiliac-type disorder, where the blood doesn't clot, or the opposite, where a person clots too easily. Any input on this would be appreciated. I spoke with my family physician and he didn't see, nor has he heard, of any problems associated with my disorder and SCUBA diving. Thank you for any feedback you can provide!

 

[rstofer]

Call DAN - Divers Alert Network. They have doctors that specialize in this stuff.

Richard

 

[Crowley]

Exactly - see a specialist hyperbaric physician and DAN can help you with this. DVTs can be pressure related (the so called "economy class syndrome" on aircraft) so you will need to see a specialist. Your average GP will not be able to help.

Also - post this on the medical forum, somebody there might have a better idea. Blood disorders and diving can be very bad, so you need to see a specialist.

Cheers

C.