What is decompression sickness?

Decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," is indeed a condition caused by nitrogen bubbles forming in the body during ascent after a dive. When divers go underwater and are exposed to increased pressures, nitrogen from the air they breathe dissolves into their tissues and bloodstream. As a diver ascends and the pressure decreases, the nitrogen comes out of solution and forms bubbles. These bubbles can cause a variety of symptoms, from joint pain to more serious neurological and cardiovascular issues, depending on where in the body they form and their size.

Understanding this condition is crucial for divers, as it emphasizes the importance of controlled ascent rates and the use of safety stops to allow nitrogen to safely dissipate from the body. Recognizing the physiological mechanisms behind decompression sickness helps divers take necessary precautions to avoid this potentially life-threatening condition.