Diving medicine problems in the otolaryngology field. II. Diving specific disorders and the assessment of physical fitness.

Scuba diving with compressed air has become a recreational sport that can be performed at all stages of adulthood. The human body including all gas-filled cavities are exposed to an increased ambient pressure during a dive. In the present review article, specific aspects of diving related disorders are that are of importance in the otolaryngology field are presented and discussed: the multitude of causes for divers' vertigo and the so called divers ear. Furthermore, useful recommendations in the assessment of physical fitness for diving are presented. This review will provide a background and foundation for both, an adequate treatment of these diseases and a critical and responsible health education of the diver.