If you’re sick before leaving for your trip, see a physician. He or she can help you determine if you’re healthy enough to dive. But if you arrive at the resort and then get sick, ask yourself these questions:

• Can you breathe easily?

• Can you equalize your ears easily?

• Do you have a fever, chills or sweats?

• Are you coughing or blowing your nose frequently?

• Do you have chest congestion?

• Are you fatigued?

• Are you taking medicine to relieve your symptoms?

How to Know When You Can Dive with a Cold

Keep in mind what the experts at DAN have to say about antihistamines and decongestants:
“Antihistamines counteract the symptoms of allergies, colds and motion sickness but may have side effects. In therapeutic doses, these side effects may include dryness of the mouth, nose and throat; visual disturbances; drowsiness; or an undesired sedation or depression — all significant factors that, together or separately, can affect the safety of a dive. Decongestants may cause a mild central nervous system stimulation and can also cause numerous side effects such as nervousness, excitability, restlessness, dizziness, weakness, and a forceful or rapid heartbeat.”