Decompression sickness: symptoms, prevention, and treatment

Decompression sickness is one of the most serious diving problems, but it is fully preventable with correct training.

What is decompression sickness

On a rapid ascent from depth, nitrogen dissolved in the tissues expands faster than the body can eliminate it, so harmful bubbles form in the tissues, joints, and blood vessels.

Common symptoms

Mild symptoms

• Pain in the joints and muscles
• Numbness or tingling in the limbs
• Skin rash and itching

Severe symptoms

• Difficulty breathing and chest pain
• Paralysis or weakness in the limbs
• Loss of consciousness in extreme cases

Complete prevention

• Ascend slowly, no faster than 18 meters per minute
• Keep to decompression stops, especially the 5-meter stop
• Do not exceed the maximum time at any depth
• Do not dive after alcohol or with severe fatigue

Treatment if it occurs

The only confirmed treatment is a hyperbaric chamber that returns nitrogen to a dissolved state, then removes it safely. Call emergency services immediately at any suspicion of decompression sickness.

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A slow ascent and decompression stops are the gold-standard protection from this illness.