## Why Does Nitrogen Build Up When Scuba Diving?
When you breathe in compressed air while scuba diving, the nitrogen in the air dissolves into your bloodstream. As you descend deeper, the pressure increases, and more nitrogen dissolves into your blood. This is not a problem as long as you ascend slowly enough to allow the nitrogen to bubble out of your blood. However, if you ascend too quickly, the nitrogen can come out of solution too quickly and form bubbles in your bloodstream. These bubbles can block blood vessels and cause serious injury or even death.
## Symptoms of Nitrogen Buildup
The symptoms of nitrogen buildup can include:
Fatigue
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Confusion
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
## Treatment for Nitrogen Buildup
The treatment for nitrogen buildup is to descend to a shallower depth and ascend more slowly. This will allow the nitrogen to bubble out of your blood and prevent it from forming bubbles in your bloodstream. In severe cases, you may need to be treated with oxygen or hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
## How to Prevent Nitrogen Buildup
There are a few things you can do to prevent nitrogen buildup when scuba diving:
Ascend slowly. The slower you ascend, the more time the nitrogen has to bubble out of your blood.
Make safety stops. Safety stops are short stops at specific depths during your ascent. These stops allow the nitrogen to bubble out of your blood and reduce your risk of decompression sickness.
Don’t dive too deep. The deeper you dive, the more nitrogen will dissolve into your blood. If you dive too deep, you may increase your risk of decompression sickness.
Stay hydrated. Dehydration can increase your risk of decompression sickness. Drink plenty of fluids before and after your dive.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can dehydrate you and increase your risk of decompression sickness.
## Conclusion
Nitrogen buildup is a serious hazard for scuba divers. By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of nitrogen buildup and enjoy a safe and fun dive.