Modern medicine statistics states that many divers suffer from headache at the time of diving. During regular practices every diver experiences headaches from time to time. Moreover, some people regularly suffer from headaches as a result of being on the depth. From this article you will get simple advice on how to avoid headache at the time of diving training.

 If such unpleasantness was a one-time case, there is no need to panic, however many deep diving enthusiasts complain of a systematic and quite strong headaches. Note, that the reasons for the pain may be the following:

• anxiety, stress;
• physical damage to ear or nose, caused by the difference in pressure (barotraumas);
• infectious diseases of ears and nose;
• swallowing of a certain amount of sea water;
• sudden immersion into cold water;
• too much pressure of a mask strap on the head;
• inflammation of the gums or sore tooth
• preceding pain in the mandibular joint;
• increased level of CO2;
• frequent migraines;
• cervical spondylosis;
• decompression sickness;
• hyperextension of neck muscles;
• Smoking before diving, using caffeine or other stimulants.

As you can see the reasons for possible discomfort may be quite various, and they are often found in a person’s medical card or in his lifestyle. It is possible to determine the source of pain with certainty with the help of a few additional questions.

Have you ever had problems, related to the area of the head and neck (traumas, degenerative diseases, regular pains) before you started doing diving?

Headache among divers is often caused by high excitability or nerve tension and such people frequently experience these symptoms in everyday life. In such cases it is better to consult neurologist before continuing practicing diving. If you suffer from migraines, diving is strictly forbidden. Women may sometimes feel pain due to the changes in their menstrual cycle.

Badly chosen mouthpiece adjusted too tight can cause pain. Constant biting on this element provokes unpleasant feeling. Such diving equipment is better chosen individually and taken with you.

Frequent pains in the upper part of the back or neck, after-effects of the traumas always lead to discomfort. It is better to consult a podiatrist or go through a course of special exercises, massage or physiotherapy. 

What is the technique of cylinder fixation?

Many divers bent and stretch their neck for it not to be rubbed by a stop-valve. It becomes the reason of pain, that can be easily avoided – adjust the position of the cylinders so they do not touch your neck in its normal position.

How do you breathe and dive?

A too little amount of air usage can often be the reason of pains – carbon dioxide is accumulated in the body and causes discomfort. Too deep and lengthy dives as well as a fast ascent may cause a decompression sickness. In this case a diver needs immediate help.

Practical advice:

• Proper diving training – turn to professionals only;
• loosen a tight mask;
• try to relax at the time of diving;
• try to breathe slowly and deep;
• don’t strain your neck, turn with your body;
• keep a good physical form;
• don’t smoke or drink caffeine before diving;
• follow the safety measures;
• choose a wetsuit well not to get cold;
• Divers younger than 40 need to pass a medical check once in two years, older than 40 – every year.

It is important to choose a specialized diving center in Eilat, where a beginner will be set straight, helped with choosing the equipment and taught all the peculiarities.

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