Dear Steven, I fully understand and agree with you. Medical check-up is a must and I've gone similar experience on this before upon deciding to take up my OWD.

Most doctors won't give a thumbs up. Best if you can consult to a hyperbaric doctor/medical specialist - just that it is hard to get one and we don't really have many of em in Malaysia (not sure of Brunei if u r residing there). But, if you can, find a doctor who also dive and seek his or her consultation. They would understand better.

Whatever it is, do remember safety is the upmost important. We want to dive and we want to safely dive.