Diving can be a thrilling experience. However, if proper precautions are not taken, the risks can become incredibly serious. From seizing up joints to long-term brain damage, the risks of decompression sickness should not be overlooked. Learn all that you need to know to stay safe while diving and how to know when to be worried. Dive in and understand what it takes to prevent decompression sickness.
1. Uncovering the Dangers of Decompression Sickness
Have you ever heard of decompression sickness? Dive deep under water for a few long minutes and you may find yourself face-to-face with this uncomfortable aquatic condition, and its varied impacts.
In short, decompression sickness occurs when a diver descends and then ascends quickly. When this happens, the pressure changes in the body, and gases like nitrogen can’t be properly dissolved in the bloodstream. This can lead to distress in any body parts, such as:
- Pain
- Tingling or itching
- Joint pain
- Weakness
Let’s not forget about changes in sense of balance, fatigue, vertigo, difficulty in breathing, hearing impairment and even cognitive deficits. Needless to say, these symptoms may hinder your performance as a diver, and probably ruin your trip experience. Of course, the more time you spend down under, the greater the risk of incurring decompression sickness.
Therefore, it is wise to keep an eye out for the early signs of decompression sickness, and be prepared to act accordingly. Make sure to maintain a slow and steady ascent, and properly check your diving time and depth. If you neglect the usage of dive computers, tablets and other related gives, you may be in for quite the unwelcome surprise. Let’s do our best to avoid that, as the appreciation of the underwater world should be obligatorily accompanied by safety.
2. Learning How to Protect Yourself From Decompression Sickness
Decompression Sickness (DCS) is a potentially dangerous condition caused by a change in pressure while underwater. It can be deadly if not treated properly and quickly, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself from this medical emergency. We’ve put together some tips for divers and ocean explorers on how to prevent DCS and stay safe on their next deep sea dive.
- Choose the right dive shop and have the correct gear. You should always do research to make sure the dive shop that you’re using is reliable and has up-to-date, safe equipment. Make sure you have a dive computer and adequate pressure gauge.
- Follow the dive plan. Every dive should have a plan. Make sure you know the intended depth and time, and stick to it. You should also have an emergency signal or similar safety device in case of an unforeseen emergency.
- Don’t push yourself too hard – diving too deep or for too long will increase your risk of DCS.
- Carry a dive slate and a knife. A dive slate can be used to communicate with other divers and is also useful for reminding yourself of the dive plan, timing, and maximum profile. A knife can be used for many rescue situations; always keep one with you while diving.
- Allow enough time for careful ascents. Ascent speeds should not exceed 30ft/minute, 25ft/min if decompression is required. Rushing could cause nitrogen to bubble which can cause serious health issues. Identify a safety stop spot and be prepared to hold it if necessitated.
- Be aware of the signs and symptoms of DCS. Knowing the symptoms can give you an early warning if something goes wrong, and allow you to take action before the condition worsens. Symptoms can include joint pain, skin rashes, or difficulty breathing.
Following all of these tips will help to reduce your risk of DCS. Diving is an exhilarating experience but can be dangerous. Ensure that you have adequate training, the right equipment, and always be aware of your surroundings – happy diving!
3. What Causes Decompression Sickness and How to Avoid It?
Diving and Decompression Sickness
Decompression sickness (DCI) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can affect divers who ascend too quickly from deep water. It occurs when a diver’s body is subjected to changes in hydrostatic pressure different from that at their surface pressure, resulting in the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the body’s tissues and bloodstream. To avoid DCI, divers must monitor their time and depth carefully during descents and adopt safe ascent techniques.
Causes of Decompression Sickness
DCI is caused primarily by divers surfacing too quickly or staying underwater too long. When a diver descends to a depth where the hydrostatic pressure is greater than the atmospheric pressure at the surface, nitrogen is dissolved into their body fluids and tissues. When the diver resurfaces, the pressure reduces and the nitrogen comes out of these fluids and tissues, forming nitrogen bubbles which can then travel through the body and cause damage to organs and tissues.
Other factors can also increase the risk of DCI, such as:
- Drinking alcohol before or after a dive.
- Overexertion during a dive.
- Exposure to cold water.
- Physical health issues such as dehydration and high blood pressure.
Preventing Decompression Sickness
In order to prevent DCI, divers must abide by the practice of dive safety. When descending, divers should keep an eye on their dive watch to ensure that they remain within their time and depth limits, and take rest stops during ascents. It is important to factor in all applicable ocean and weather conditions before commencing a dive, as these can affect safety.
It is also important to practice proper dive preparation, including proper hydration techniques and consumption of food before and after a dive. Proper dive preparation helps to prevent physiological conditions that can increase the risk of DCI. Lastly, divers should only dive within their abilities and certified skill levels to reduce the risk of oversaturation or overexertion, which can lead to DCI.
4. Understand the Risks with Decompression Sickness: Stay Safe!
Exploring the natural underwater realm comes with inherent risks. Decompression sickness is an effect of ascending too quickly putting divers at risk of developing tissues bubbles or “the bends”. It is important to stay vigilant and prepared while decompressing. Here are a few points to keep in mind to ensure a safe diving experience.
Monitor Dive Time and Depth:
- A dive computer is a must have for monitoring goals and plans while diving.
- Know the maximum depth depth allowed for the dive, and stick to it.
- Never exceed the depth limit based on a diver’s certification level.
Plan a Safe Ascent:
- Always ascend slowly and keep an eye on the pressure gauges.
- Make stops along the way up to adjust to the pressure change.
- Surface slowly, and never come up faster than 18 meters per minute.
A dive that underestimates the risk of decompression sickness can be fatal. Expect the worst-case scenario and plan accordingly. It might be a good idea to invest in a dive emergency recovery plan. This can provide divers with access to advanced medical attention in the event of an emergency.
Stay alert and plan safety dives. Use all the resources available and never rush a dive. With the right equipment, training, and commitment, diving can be a safe and enjoyable activity. Risks can be mitigated with the right preparation so be sure to do the necessary research.
Understanding the risks of decompression sickness can help you make sure you stay safe when diving. Keep in mind to take all the necessary steps to prevent this malady with the aim of making sure you have an incredible and safe diving experience.
