Can I Scuba Dive with an inguinal hernia
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I have an inguinal hernia on the left side with a noticable buldge. I have had it for a number of years with no problem, during which time i have been very active. I am learning to Scuba Dive and was concerned that the pressure of the 1st open water dive shortly could cause me problems. Is it safe to dive (at least to a certain depth) with this?
Dear Jc: Scuba diving can increase your intraabdominal pressure and thus lead to worsening of the hernia per se. However if you are not noticing any pain or change in the size of the hernia then I assume that you could continue though with caution. An inguinal hernia can get strangulated or have further complications and under ideal circumstances should be operated upon. I hope this helps. |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 13 June 2011 )
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