Symptoms of Decompression Sickness
Symptoms of DCS can present themselves within minutes or up to 24 hours after going through a pressure drop. They may differ depending on the location and number of dissolved nitrogen bubbles in the tissues. Symptoms may include:
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Joint and muscle pain: Often described as aching or deep pain. They are usually present in the arms or legs.
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Fatigue and dizziness: Common early signs of DCS are generalized tiredness and lightheadedness.
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Neurological symptoms: In severe cases, there may be numbness, tingling, weakness, visual disturbances, confusion, and paralysis.
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Skin changes: A mottled, itchy, or marbled appearance of the skin may be visible.
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Breathing difficulties: If nitrogen bubbles affect the lungs, it can cause chest pain, coughing, and shortness of breath.
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In extreme cases, DCS can be life-threatening and demands immediate medical attention.
Decompression Sickness
Decompression sickness (DCS) is a potentially serious condition that occurs when dissolved gases get trapped in the body’s tissues and bloodstream. It usually occurs when there is a sudden, rapid decrease in atmospheric pressure. This sudden change in pressure may happen during scuba diving ascents or high-altitude flights.
What Causes Decompression Sickness?
When the human body is exposed to a sudden increase in pressure, certain gases that we inhale, such as nitrogen, get dissolved in our body tissues. This can happen during a deep dive. Then, when the pressure is reduced too quickly due to rapid ascent, this nitrogen doesn’t get enough time to safely exit the body via the lungs. Instead, it forms gas bubbles in the blood and tissues, which is quite similar to opening a carbonated drink. These bubbles can disrupt normal physiological functions and lead to serious complications.
Who Is at Risk?
Scuba divers are the most commonly affected. But decompression sickness can also affect:
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Pilots and astronauts exposed to sudden drops in atmospheric pressure.
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Tunnel workers and caisson workers operating in pressurized environments.
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High-altitude hikers or skydivers, particularly if pressurization is lost quickly.
Several factors increase the risk of DCS. Some of them are rapid ascent, prolonged exposure to high pressure, dehydration, obesity, poor physical fitness, cold environments, and flying soon after diving.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is mainly clinical. It is done based on a history of exposure to pressure changes, symptom onset, and a physical examination. Treatment for decompression sickness is recompression therapy using a hyperbaric oxygen chamber. This involves placing the affected person in a pressurized chamber to reduce the size of nitrogen bubbles and accelerate nitrogen elimination while delivering 100% oxygen.
It is also important to provide supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, pain management, and monitoring of vital signs.
Prevention of Decompression Sickness
Prevention is critical, especially for divers and others regularly exposed to pressure changes. Key measures include:
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Ascending slowly and following recommended decompression stops.
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Using dive tables or dive computers to monitor exposure.
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Staying well-hydrated and avoiding alcohol before diving.
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Avoid air travel for 12–24 hours after diving.
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Taking precautions during high-altitude exposure.
