Decompression Sickness (DCS) — What It Is and Why It Matters
Decompression sickness (DCS), commonly called "the bends," is a condition caused by nitrogen bubbles forming in the body's tissues and blood when a diver ascends too quickly or exceeds safe no-decompression limits. As ambient pressure decreases during ascent, dissolved nitrogen can come out of solution and form bubbles — similar to opening a carbonated drink.
Symptoms range from mild (joint pain, skin rash, fatigue) to severe (paralysis, breathing difficulty, loss of consciousness) depending on the size and location of the bubbles. Treatment involves breathing 100% oxygen and, in many cases, recompression in a hyperbaric chamber. DCS is the primary risk that dive computers are designed to prevent through real-time decompression modeling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get DCS even if you follow your dive computer?
Yes, though the risk is very low. Dive computers model the average diver, but individual factors like dehydration, fatigue, body composition, age, and a patent foramen ovale (PFO) can increase susceptibility. Conservative settings help mitigate individual risk.
What should I do if I suspect DCS?
Breathe 100% oxygen if available, drink water, lie flat, and seek emergency medical attention immediately. Contact DAN (Divers Alert Network) or local emergency services. Do not re-enter the water to attempt in-water recompression unless under the direction of a trained professional.
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