Basic HTML Version
www.alertdiver.com
|
37
directory. The DAN medic reassured me she could help. An
hour or so later, she emailed me the name and phone number
of an otolaryngologist in town. She had spoken with him and
learned he had experience treating divers (and that his brother
was a commercial diver). She gave me his phone number and
urged me to make an appointment as soon as possible, patiently
explaining the likely treatment and calming my fear. When I
called the office they knew about my situation, and I was able to
get an appointment for the next day. I emailed my thanks to the
DAN medic.
The doctor turned out to be kind and very patient. His
diagnosis was the same as the DAN medic’s assessment, and
he proceeded to treat the problem in much the manner she
had described. He had to puncture each ear drum to drain
fluid from the middle ears, and he assured me my hearing
would be fine, explaining he had done this procedure for
his brother more than once. I was scared, but I had been
prepared for it, and it was over quickly. I was so grateful.
Imagine my surprise when later that day my phone rang and
it was the medic from DAN. She was just calling to find out
how things had gone — and I wasn’t even a member.
Since then, I have become a DAN member and always
look forward to reading the latest copy of Alert Diver. My
passion for diving was renewed that summer of 2001, and my
experience with DAN kept the ear injury from becoming a
negative association with diving. On the contrary, I decided to
get my advanced certification and several specialties. I renew my
membership every year and never dive without DAN insurance.
I’m a safer and more informed diver because of DAN. I’m also
a cautious diver, and I have, over the years, contacted DAN
whenever I’ve been concerned that some symptom might be
related to a recent dive. It never has been, but it’s been great to
have somewhere to turn for answers. I’m glad I’ve never had
to avail myself of DAN’s emergency services, but I’ve heard
stories from divemasters, and I’m glad to know DAN is there
for divers. Diving every year in the Caribbean, I’m often on dive
boats with folks who are newly certified or returning to diving
after a long hiatus. I always recommend DAN membership and
insurance to novice divers.
AD
• Includes all meals, beverages and transfers
• Free Nitrox
• Tech diving available
• Nine spacious suites
1-800-757-5396
the way to see
TRUK LAGOON
www.trukodyssey.com
info@trukodyssey.com
THE MEDIC’S PERSPECTIVE
It’s not uncommon for divers to delay seeking care for postdive ear
pain, thinking the problem isn’t serious enough to warrant action. But
the ears are valuable and important organs — taking the time to be
evaluated is definitely worthwhile. DAN is here to answer any questions
you or your treating physician may have.
— DAN medical information staff
Barefoot Elegance
www.southerncrossclub.com
Tel: 00.1.800.899.2582
DIVE ~ FISH ~ RELAX