Headaches After Scuba Diving: Causes, Prevention, and Safety Tips

We’ve all been there: the euphoria of an incredible underwater adventure dampened by an annoying headache after diving. It’s important to remember that each person is different and may experience different sensations or reactions after diving. In fact, according to statistics, post-dive headaches are something that only some divers suffer from.

Most headaches are transient. However, recurrent episodes demand attention. To prevent the discomfort associated with post-dive headaches, it is essential to understand their origins and implement appropriate preventive measures. By understanding the roots of these unwanted headaches, you can ask yourself the right questions and keep them at bay to continue enjoying the magic of the underwater world.

That’s why we’ve rolled up our sleeves for this article, where we’ll cover the following topics:

1. Understanding and Preventing Headaches After Scuba Diving

1.1. Headaches After Scuba Diving: Common Causes

Let’s delve into the heart of the matter and explore what might be causing those headaches after those unforgettable diving sessions:

Carbon dioxide diving headaches: Oh no! We are facing the result of improper breathing techniques underwater. When we breathe quickly and shallowly, we don’t oxygenate properly (yes, we’ve all been there!), and carbon dioxide accumulates, causing those annoying stabbing pains after the dive. Remember, when it comes to breathing underwater, slow and steady wins the race. While exploring the wonders of the ocean, breathing deeply and steadily is the best way to avoid these persistent headaches.

Tension headaches: especially common among beginner divers, these headaches after diving  are often caused by the stress and strain our bodies endure during initial dives. But fret not, rookies! Post-dive headaches will gradually disappear as you gain experience.

Migraines: For those of us with a history of migraines, diving can present some additional challenges. These intense headaches often come accompanied by nausea. Migraines can occur during or after a dive and could even be an indicator of possible decompression sickness or other underlying health issues. Dear divers! We need to pay attention to our bodies. If you’re experiencing a migraine episode, you won’t find relief at the bottom of the sea. STAY ON LAND.

Sinus issues: Ouch! We’re dealing with the dreaded headaches after diving caused by pressure imbalances. They’re called that because with the change in pressure, the nasal sinuses get compressed. This can wreak havoc and cause discomfort in the forehead, face, and eyes, especially for those with a history of equalization problems.

DCS alert: Brace yourselves, friends, as we delve into the most serious type of dive-related headache. DCS headaches are no joke and require immediate medical attention. Often caused by rapid ascents or failure to follow proper decompression protocols, these headaches are associated with decompression sickness. These scuba headaches are serious and require quick action. If you experience a headache after diving along with neurological symptoms, it’s time to seek professional help without delay.

2. How to Prevent Headaches After Scuba Diving

2.1. 5 questions that help to prevent headaches after scuba diving

As we’ve seen, the causes of post-dive headaches can be related to tangential aspects of diving without a direct relationship to the most wonderful underwater activity in the world. (Oops, my enthusiasm is showing, isn’t it?)

However, if you’re someone who experiences headaches after diving, according to the Divers Alert Network (DAN), it’s advisable for those who frequently suffer from headaches after diving to perform a self-check consisting of 5 questions.

Have you had any previous head or neck issues? It’s time to look back and think carefully if you’ve had any problems in your head or neck such as persistent headaches or dizziness caused by cervical tension, muscle contractions, etc. Pay attention to nausea, vomiting, strange sensations, blurred vision, or even temporary paralysis and visit an experienced neurologist. Migraines, on the other hand, require expert evaluation. Better safe than sorry, right?

How is your tank positioned? Have you ever felt that discomfort in your head after diving, as if you have tension in your neck and it’s stiff? It could be due to an unusual culprit: the tank valve. Obviously, your tank position is incorrect, and you’ve spent the whole dive avoiding hitting the valve. Seek help from an experienced buddy or instructor to ensure that your neck isn’t doing any acrobatics.

Where is the pain located? Pain is an excellent communicator. Does it radiate from your neck, persistently throb in your temples, feel an annoying twinge all over your head? Or perhaps it settles on your paranasal sinuses or your ears? Identifying the source of the pain can lead you to the cause and, with it, the solution.

Are you controlling your breathing or breathing like a locomotive? We know you’re proud to be a diver and to breathe underwater alongside the fish when others can’t, but let’s talk about the technique you’re using. Remember that getting rid of carbon dioxide from your lungs is a bit like removing that red wine stain from your carpet. The bigger the spill, the more cleaning power you need. Likewise, the lungs require more air the deeper you go. Focus on a slow, steady breathing pattern that relieves headaches. Take a breath, literally. Embrace the art of breathing slowly and deeply to ensure that you efficiently eliminate the annoying carbon dioxide. Shortness of breath? No, thank you. Maintain a smooth and steady rhythm for a serene diving experience.

How was your dive profile? Long or deep dives, rapid ascents, breath-holding, or, worse, rushing to the surface driven by panic, are warning signs of possible DCS (Decompression Sickness). Although fortunately rare, it is crucial to pay attention to any abnormal symptoms after diving. Safety should always be a priority.

2.2. Diving-Related Headaches General Preventive Strategies

To keep your underwater adventures free of headaches after diving, take a look at these practical tips.

• Equipment comfort is key: Your diving gear should feel like a warm embrace, not like a headlock! Check that your mask, hood, and regulator fit perfectly, without exerting unnecessary pressure on your face or neck. If something’s not right, don’t hesitate to adjust or change it for a more comfortable alternative.
• Stay hydrated: Keep that water bottle handy! Hydration is key to trouble-free diving. Drink water before, during (if you’re a technical diver), and after your underwater adventure to avoid dehydration-related headaches and prevent any unwanted decompression sickness.
• Dive smart, dive safe: Follow the dive plan, folks! Stick to the recommended dive profiles, embrace those gradual ascents, and don’t forget those important safety stops. Spend a few extra minutes relaxing at 3-5 meters below the surface, and you’re good to go!
• Cut down on caffeine, theine, taurine, or any stimulants: Skip that pre-dive coffee and say no to tobacco. These troublesome elements could be the culprits behind those unwanted post-dive headaches.
• Don’t even think about alcohol. It can have dehydrating effects and increase the risk of headaches after diving.
• Stay warm, stay happy: Thermal protection is crucial. Keep your body comfortable while diving, and your head will thank you!
• Get those muscles working outside the water: Regular exercise can work wonders to keep those diving headaches at bay.
• Watch out for your neck: Keep an eye on the position of that neck! Rotate that body, avoid hyperextension, and bid farewell to tension and discomfort.
• Take care of your diving mask: Your mask should be an ally, not your worst enemy. Make sure it’s not exerting unnecessary pressure on your nose, forehead, or cheekbones.

Remember, if you frequently face severe and incapacitating headaches, it’s time to seek professional help. Your health is a priority, and these preventive measures can ensure a memorable underwater adventure and prevent headaches after diving.