diving after mono

[lonebrave]

I was diagnosed with mono (monospot blood test popped positive) a couple weeks ago. I've had symptoms (weakness/lack of energy, little appetite, night sweats, etc) for about 4 weeks now. I'm definitely getting better, probably a bit over half way back to my normal energy level at this point. My appetite is getting better...eating normal foods again, but only about 70% of the quantity that I use to. My doc says to keep taking it easy and get lots of rest and hydration. I haven't asked her about when she'll OK me to start diving again, yet. I have a follow-up scheduled for two weeks and I'll ask her about diving then.

I plan to start easy...mostly shallow dives (~45fsw max) for a month or two after I get back in the water (I'm PADI Deep certified, and averaged about half my dives to ~100 fsw, and half to ~50fsw before getting sick). I'm expecting that it'll be easier to overexert myself due to the residual lacking energy from the mono.

What should I be concerned with and keep in mind when diving after mono?

 

[Duke Dive Medicine]

Hi LoneBrave,

Once your physician clears you for full activity and you've recovered completely and without complications, you should be fine. You could remain contagious for a while, though, so be mindful of sharing regulators or masks.

Best regards,
DDM

 

[TSandM]

Don't push it, though. Mono severely impacts exercise tolerance and mentation; I'd wait until your energy level and stamina are just about normal before I would challenge myself with diving. (Having had mono, I have a powerful respect for the illness.)