Decompression sickness (DCS), often referred to as “the bends,” is a medical condition that occurs when dissolved gases, primarily nitrogen, come out of solution in the bloodstream and form bubbles in the body. This typically happens when a person ascends too quickly from a high-pressure environment, such as deep water during scuba diving.
Symptoms of Decompression Sickness
The symptoms of DCS can vary widely but often include joint pain, dizziness, headache, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to paralysis, unconsciousness, or even death.
Symptoms typically appear within 15 minutes to 12 hours after surfacing, though they can sometimes be delayed.
Causes and Risk Factors
Decompression sickness is primarily caused by rapid ascents, but several factors can increase the risk. These include dehydration, cold water, heavy exertion during the dive, and repeated dives without adequate surface intervals. Flying or traveling to high altitudes soon after diving can also increase the risk, as it reduces atmospheric pressure further.
Treatment and Prevention
The primary treatment for DCS is hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This helps reduce the size of nitrogen bubbles and facilitates their removal from the body. Immediate administration of 100% oxygen and hydration can also be beneficial.
Prevention is key in avoiding decompression sickness. Divers should follow dive tables or dive computers to plan safe ascent rates and surface intervals, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity before and after diving, and wait at least 24 hours before flying.
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