Decompression sickness is a condition precipitated by a sudden drop in environmental pressure. It leads to certain gases which are dissolved in the blood, such as nitrogen, form bubbles within the blood and tissue when the pressure is reduced. This can produce pain and lead to injuries in the tissues and obstruction of the blood vessels.
Causes of Decompression Sickness
Under increased pressures, such as scuba diving, more gases are dissolved in the blood. Those gases which are not utilized by the body, such as nitrogen, will not be able to stay dissolved in the blood when the pressure is suddenly decreased. This results in bubble of nitrogen gas forming in the blood or other tissues. These bubbles can block blood vessels or damage tissues.
Signs and Symptoms of Decompression Sickness
Symptoms of decompression sickness can occur immediately or up to 24 hours after the pressure change. They may include mild to severe joint pain, chest pain, cough, or shortness of breath. Bubbles of nitrogen develop in the blood stream and obstruct blood supply to vital organs, sometimes resulting in severe injury, stroke or death. When the nervous system is involved, it can lead to weakness, loss of sensation, loss of consciousness, come, speech difficulties, visual difficulties and deafness. Abdominal pain may occur and there may be problems with urination.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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