A diver’s buoyancy is dynamic, constantly altered by pressure as the diver ascends and descends.

Just as you must equalize the pressure in your sinuses and middle ears, you must also equalize the pressure in your mask as you descend.

ASK DAN: What Do I Need to Know About Decongestants and Diving?

Some of the world’s best dive sites are only accessible by boat, but unfortunately, seasickness prevents some divers from visiting them.

Cuts and scrapes are among the most common injuries incurred by divers, and DAN receives calls from people who have come in contact with coral at least once a week.

Pulmonary edema is an abnormal leakage of fluid from the bloodstream into the alveoli—the microscopic air sacs in the lungs. It is most often the result of heart failure or other cardiac problems. Sometimes, however, pulmonary edema is observed in swimmers and divers when no underlying medical cause is apparent.

A proactive mindset will help ensure you aren’t caught off guard by seemingly minor irritations.

The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” dates back to the 18th century, but it still rings true today.

ASK DAN: What is IPE, and Who is Susceptible?