Which precaution is essential before diving after illness?

Ensuring that you have cleared your sinuses completely before diving after illness is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing potential complications. When a diver has been ill, especially with respiratory issues or congestion, there can be a buildup of pressure in the sinuses. This can lead to significant discomfort or even injury while descending and ascending during the dive. A complete clearance of the sinuses ensures that air can properly flow without obstruction, allowing for equalization and reducing the risk of barotrauma, which is a common injury associated with diving when air spaces in the body, such as the sinuses and ears, cannot equalize pressure.

Taking this precaution helps ensure that the diver has optimal conditions for diving safely and can enjoy their experience without the risk of pain or injury related to sinus pressure. It is important for divers to assess their own health conditions before diving, as taking unnecessary risks can jeopardize both their health and the safety of their dive buddy.