Can I scuba dive if I have high blood pressure?

Dr Mike Knapton says:

Scuba diving can be a great way to keep fit and provide a workout for your heart.

However, diving can have significant effects on the body, including increasing blood pressure, which could pose a risk when diving, or a risk to your health in general.

There are a number of medical conditions that could put you at risk when diving. So if you have a health condition, it’s a good idea to get checked out by your doctor before you go diving.

There are a number of medical conditions that could put you at risk when diving

Mike Knapton
Associate medical director

The British Sub-aqua Club is the governing body for sub-aqua diving and snorkelling in the UK. It has a useful website with all the information you will need to take up scuba diving. This includes a self-declaration form which is a short questionnaire asking you about any significant medical conditions. If you have any of these conditions you will need a medical reference and potentially a medical examination.

These include diseases of the heart and circulation including high blood pressure, angina, chest pains and palpitations, diabetes and stroke.

You would also be recommended to have a medical if you are on any medication (other than the oral contraceptive pill).

Subject to a satisfactory medical–which can be undertaken by your GP, but will incur a private fee – you should be able to dive safely.