OVARIAN TUMORS AND DIVING
Ovarian Tumors and Diving: Implications and Advice
Ovarian tumors can be either malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). They can appear as solid masses or as hollow sacs (cysts). Cysts, which are often filled with fluid, are generally the benign form of an ovarian tumor. Ovarian tumors are not uncommon.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Tumors
There is no reliable test or screening method for ovarian cancer. Typically, CA 125 tests and diagnostic ultrasounds are recommended, but these tests have high rates of false negatives and positives. They can also show abnormal results for many other conditions besides ovarian cancer. The Pap test may sometimes detect calcium deposits in the so-called psammoma bodies, which might indicate the presence of ovarian tumors.
Implications for Diving
The primary concerns regarding diving involve the effects on the body following surgery or radiation/chemotherapy treatments.
After Surgery
If surgery has been performed, it is important that the patient has fully healed at the incision site and has regained strength and overall well-being before considering diving.
During and After Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs have unpleasant side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Prolonged therapy usually leads to a significant decrease in energy levels due to its cytotoxic effects. Therefore, diving is discouraged while experiencing these side effects.
Some chemotherapy medications can cause lung toxicity, and patients may have impaired lung function for a year or more after completing treatment. Pulmonary function tests may be necessary to ensure adequate ventilation and clear airways.
Additional Considerations
Patients who have undergone treatment for ovarian tumors should consult with their doctor before diving. The doctor can assess overall physical condition, lung capacity, and other factors to ensure that diving is safe. Ongoing health monitoring is also recommended to detect any changes or complications that could affect diving capability.
In summary, while ovarian tumors and their treatments can present challenges for divers, with proper medical evaluation and precautions, many women can safely continue to enjoy diving.
Ovarian tumors can be either malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). They can appear as solid masses or as hollow sacs (cysts). Cysts, which are often filled with fluid, are generally the benign form of an ovarian tumor. Ovarian tumors are not uncommon.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Tumors
There is no reliable test or screening method for ovarian cancer. Typically, CA 125 tests and diagnostic ultrasounds are recommended, but these tests have high rates of false negatives and positives. They can also show abnormal results for many other conditions besides ovarian cancer. The Pap test may sometimes detect calcium deposits in the so-called psammoma bodies, which might indicate the presence of ovarian tumors.
Implications for Diving
The primary concerns regarding diving involve the effects on the body following surgery or radiation/chemotherapy treatments.
After Surgery
If surgery has been performed, it is important that the patient has fully healed at the incision site and has regained strength and overall well-being before considering diving.
During and After Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs have unpleasant side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Prolonged therapy usually leads to a significant decrease in energy levels due to its cytotoxic effects. Therefore, diving is discouraged while experiencing these side effects.
Some chemotherapy medications can cause lung toxicity, and patients may have impaired lung function for a year or more after completing treatment. Pulmonary function tests may be necessary to ensure adequate ventilation and clear airways.
Additional Considerations
Patients who have undergone treatment for ovarian tumors should consult with their doctor before diving. The doctor can assess overall physical condition, lung capacity, and other factors to ensure that diving is safe. Ongoing health monitoring is also recommended to detect any changes or complications that could affect diving capability.
In summary, while ovarian tumors and their treatments can present challenges for divers, with proper medical evaluation and precautions, many women can safely continue to enjoy diving.