On starting an SSI or a PADI diving course, along with a registration from you will be asked to complete a self-declaration medical form designed to identify any medical problems that may affect a diver. It is simply a matter of giving a 'yes' or 'no' response to each question; exceptional fitness is not essential and both men and woman can dive safely, providing that they are reasonably fit. A negative response to some of the questions would not necessarily prevent someone from diving but would require a trip to your GP for a medical examination confirming your fitness to dive. The 'UK sports diver medical form' is completed during your course registration procedure. The questions below form part of the self-declaration and will give a good indication of your fitness to dive; should there be any questions that you are not sure about, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Have you suffered at any time with heart, circulation, blood pressure, angina, chest pain, palpitations? Have you at any time had chest or heart surgery? Have you any history of alcohol or drug abuse in the last five years? Are you taking medication for asthma? Have you at any time had blackouts, faints or dizziness? Have you had any ear problems in the last ten years? Do you have any colostomy problems? Have you ever had epilepsy or fits?

Have you ever had back problems? Have you any psychological illness? Do you have diabetes? Have you ever had a collapsed lung, pneumothorax or any other chest and lung disease? Are you currently taking any medication or under the doctor? Have you ever been treated for decompression illness? Have you had recurrent migraines? Have you ever had any other disease of the brain or nervous system?