Blood Pressure

[ScubaBaby]

Dear Doc...or anyone who may know!

As I have mentioned a few times on the board I have had a serious problem with my kidneys that has left me with just under 50% normal kidney function.

This in turn has affected my blood pressure...ie. its higher than most.

I don't think its a problem at the moment...but my blood pressure will be a problem as I age....I will have to try controlling it a lot more.

Will my blood pressure ever effect me diving??? The reason I ask is because I am aware that women who are pregnant arent suppose to and altho pregnancy reduces a womans b/p during her first pregnancy it normally is raised. Does the b/p have anything to do with this ???

This is more out of interest than anything else.....always one to learn more about stuff that isnt revelant yet!

(Altho I have mentioned pregnancy, dont worry...I am not pregnant!)

 

[BillP]

Hi ScubaBaby:

Look through what DAN has on high blood pressure and diving at:

http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/medical/faq/faq.asp?faqid=64

Then look at what Scubadoc has on high blood pressure at:

http://www.scuba-doc.com/hyptdiv.htm

and on kidney disease at:

http://www.scuba-doc.com/kidprbs.htm

The effects of high blood pressure (not really the high blood pressure itself) can affect a diver as outlined in the articles above, as can kidney disease.

The prohibition against diving while pregnant has more to do with the effects on the baby and other concerns for the mother rather than specifically the mother's blood pressure.

Hope this helps,

Bill