Is sea diving safe post steroid treatment ?
Patient: Hi, I am 24 years old and had membranous glomerulonephritis completed treatment with steriod and antihypertensives. Now taking only "Diovan" no problems any more.I am planning to attend a deep sea diving ciurse. Is there any problems or limitation with my condition? Thank you Doctor: Hi,Thanks for writing in.Taking steroids causes reversible side effects like weakness and increased tendency to fall sick. It is important to have a complete evaluation of your general health including blood counts to know if your immunity is good and to confirm the absence of infections. Considering deep sea diving, a depth of more than 80 to 100 feet is to be undertaken only after getting examined and taking a fitness permit from your doctor.Diovan contains valsartan and this is a good anti hypertensive medicine. People who have high blood pressure require a medical fitness permit from the doctor.In conclusion, a general health examination and medical fitness permit is required which you can get from your doctor attached to the deep sea diving institute. Please take precautions when diving deeper than 80 to 100 feet under water. Please do not worry.