Scuba Diving and Lymphedema

Scuba Diving and Lymphedema

We’ve heard glowing reports from friends, who also happen to have lymphedema, about how they continue to enjoy scuba diving. In our search for information as to whether this is, or isn’t a recommended activity for those with lymphedema, we found the following statement made from Dr. Bruno Chikley, M.D.

“According to many patients, scuba diving is beneficial in chronic lymphedema. The hydrostatic pressure of water probably has a similar effect to that of compression bandaging. The change in oxygen pressure may also have some effect, but no scientific study has yet been done on scuba diving and lymphedema.
“When scuba diving, lymphedema patients need to protect themselves against injury and wear a wet suit and diving gloves when diving close to reefs. They also need to look out for jellyfish, stingrays, etc.”