Undersea medicine, also known as diving medicine or hyperbaric medicine, is a specialized field that focuses on the medical aspects of underwater and hyperbaric environments. It encompasses the study and management of health and safety concerns related to diving, submarine operations, and hyperbaric exposures. Undersea medicine is crucial for ensuring the well-being of individuals engaged in activities such as recreational and professional diving, submarine operations, and underwater research.

One key aspect of undersea medicine is the consideration of the physiological effects of increased pressure experienced underwater. As individuals descend into deeper waters, the pressure on their bodies increases, affecting the solubility of gases in body tissues. This can lead to conditions such as decompression sickness and barotrauma. Undersea medicine professionals are trained to understand and mitigate these risks, employing techniques such as dive tables, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and specialized breathing gas mixtures. Additionally, undersea medicine plays a vital role in supporting research and exploration in underwater habitats, contributing to advancements in the understanding of aquatic physiology and the development of safety protocols for deep-sea endeavors.