Ocular problems among divers: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Scuba diving has been associated with various ocular conditions, affecting divers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced individuals. Barotrauma, often caused by mask squeeze, is a well-documented issue in diving. Understanding the common eye problems divers encounter is crucial to ensure divers can take necessary precautions and safeguard the health of their eyes during and after dives. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the various ocular problems that divers may face, explore their underlying causes, discuss preventive measures, and outline potential treatments. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) from the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using a checklist from Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Results: We included 10 kinds of literature from all over the world, mostly originating in the United States region. The most common ocular problems are subconjunctival hemorrhage, proptosis, periorbital swelling and ecchymoses, and diplopia. More serious cases, such as intraorbital hemorrhage, proptosis, central retina artery occlusion, and optic nerve avulsion, were also reported. Conclusions: Understanding and addressing divers' ocular problems is essential to protecting their eye health and enhancing their diving experience. By implementing preventive measures, divers can effectively mitigate the risks and promote the overall well-being of their eyes while immersing themselves in the wonders of the underwater world.