diving and beta blockers

[slipslop]

i just read an interesting article about diving and hypertension. it went on to say that people taking beta blockers should not dive as the beta blocker slows down the heart rate and when you immerse your face in water it further slows down your heart rate and can cause blackouts etc. I have been taking a beta blocker for 5 years (atenalol)
and have recently taken up diving. should i change to another type of drug to control my hypertension? I have not had any problems so far.

 

[resqsqurt]

I've been diving while taking Atenolol for the past year and haven't had any problems. I take 25 mg twice per day. Know, of course, the underlying cause of the condition must be considered. My condition is not a problem for diving.

As far as the drug goes, I've never had any problem with my heartrate dropping. However, also consider that I have a pacemaker that would keep my rate from dropping below 70.

Don't know if this helps at all or not, but I thought I'd let you know my experience.

 

[slipslop]

thanks for the great info resqsqurt and scubadoc.

 

[ReneeC]

I too take atenonol 50mg and have for years. No problems!

 

[babar]

something you could try, just for kicks. Check your pulse, dunk your head (or at least your face) into some ice water, then recheck your pulse. Ideally, have someone around to check on you while you do this.

In all seriousness, though, if your heartrate is normal (above 60) while on the med, it should not have any effect on you. At least in terms on dropping your heart rate lower.
That said, if someone came in on beta-blockers for clearence, and had a rate of 46, I'd be concerned and want their dose adjusted, before clearing them.