Haven't you ever felt the urge to do something that, for one reason or another, you never got round to trying? Are you stuck on your sofa daydreaming about experiencing new sensations? Have you had the opportunity to try an adventure activity but lacked the courage? All these questions share one possible answer: scuba diving. It's a water sport that will gift you marvellous experiences and leave you speechless.
Exploring a new, unimaginable world teeming with vibrant colours is an adventure you can't afford to miss. Therefore, if you wish to go beyond a simple discovery dive, you'll need a specific medical certificate.
This document confirms you're in perfect health to freely explore underwater depths. Book an appointment with your GP or a specialist in hyperbaric medicine for a thorough examination. The certificate consists of two parts:
- Medical history - You'll complete a questionnaire with personal details (height, weight, eye/hair colour...) and indicate any relevant medical conditions: frequent headaches, use of glasses/contact lenses, asthma, frequent/severe colds, dizziness, allergies, high blood pressure, smoking, heart conditions, pregnancy... If any listed conditions apply, you must mark them and provide explanations.
- Medical examination - This section is completed by the doctor, who will verify everything is in order, as good physical and psychological health is paramount for diving. Scuba diving exposes participants to unusual conditions like breathing compressed air, environmental pressure changes, and exertion... making it crucial to ensure you're prepared to handle these effects.
If you suffer from the aforementioned conditions, it's unlikely you'll be cleared for scuba diving, as the risks involved are considerable. However, most people who decide to take up diving can fulfil their dream and pass the medical examination without issues.
Once you've obtained your medical certificate, all that remains is to find your nearest diving centre to enrol on a course and begin your adventure!
