I had a cavernoma stroke in my left occipital brain. All of the…

Hello Gerry

Thank you for reaching out on EnableMe and I am sorry to hear of your stroke. Yes, fatigue is very common post stroke despite your age. You can read more about fatigue on EnableMe here or our fact sheet here.

In regards to returning to scuba diving, you will need to speak with your GP and neurologist regarding this. Risks and consideration need to be considered regarding decompression illness risk, any ongoing stroke impacts and medication.

Australian Guidelines:

The South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society (SPUMS) recommends a full medical risk assessment for anyone returning to diving after a significant illness like stroke. This includes cardiovascular and neurological evaluations.
Divers aged 45+ are especially encouraged to undergo cardiovascular screening.

Medical Clearance Is Mandatory:

You need to be assessed by a doctor trained in diving medicine, ideally one familiar with stroke recovery.
The PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) will require anyone starting to dive, or returning to diving after a medical condition to undergo a medical screening and possible examination to ensure you are fit to dive. The Diver Medical Participant Questionnaire specifically asks about stroke history. If you answer “Yes” to having had a stroke, you’ll need a physician to complete a medical evaluation and sign off on your fitness to dive.
You can find the SPUMS Diving Medical Forms here and guidelines here.
You can find a diving doctor through the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society (SPUMS) here.

Hopefully there will be others who have been in your situation who may also comment on EnableMe.

If needed you can call StrokeLine on Ph. 1800 787 653, or email us at strokeline@strokefoudantion.org.au. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEDT.

All the best,

Bec - StrokeLine