## Will You Die Early from Scuba Diving?
Scuba diving is an exciting and rewarding activity, but it is also important to be aware of the risks involved. One of the most serious risks is the potential for decompression sickness, which can occur when nitrogen bubbles form in the body during ascent from a dive. If left untreated, decompression sickness can be fatal.
The risk of decompression sickness is greatest during rapid ascents, especially after deep dives. However, even slow ascents can lead to decompression sickness if the diver has been exposed to a lot of nitrogen during the dive.
There are a number of things that can increase the risk of decompression sickness, including:
Diving deep: The deeper you dive, the more nitrogen your body will absorb. This means that you will be at greater risk of decompression sickness if you ascend too quickly from a deep dive.
Diving for a long time: The longer you stay underwater, the more nitrogen your body will absorb. This means that you will be at greater risk of decompression sickness if you dive for a long time.
Repeated dives: If you make multiple dives in a short period of time, your body will not have time to eliminate the nitrogen that it absorbed during the previous dive. This means that you will be at greater risk of decompression sickness if you make repeated dives.
Being overweight or obese: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of decompression sickness because it can make it more difficult for your body to eliminate nitrogen.
Having a history of decompression sickness: If you have a history of decompression sickness, you are at greater risk of developing it again.
## Symptoms of Decompression Sickness
The symptoms of decompression sickness can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, some of the most common symptoms include:
Pain in the joints: This is the most common symptom of decompression sickness. The pain is typically felt in the shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips.
Numbness or tingling: This can occur in the hands, feet, or other parts of the body.
Weakness: This can make it difficult to move or walk.
Skin rashes: These can range from mild to severe.
Headaches: These can be severe and can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Vision problems: These can range from blurred vision to complete blindness.
Hearing problems: These can range from muffled hearing to complete deafness.
Dizziness: This can make it difficult to stand or walk.
Confusion: This can range from mild confusion to complete loss of consciousness.
## Treatment of Decompression Sickness
Decompression sickness is a serious medical condition that requires immediate treatment. If you think you may have decompression sickness, you should seek medical attention immediately.
The treatment for decompression sickness typically involves recompression therapy. This involves placing the diver in a hyperbaric chamber, which is a pressurized environment. The increased pressure helps to force the nitrogen bubbles back into solution, which can relieve the symptoms of decompression sickness.
## Prevention of Decompression Sickness
The best way to prevent decompression sickness is to follow safe diving practices. This includes:
Ascending slowly: Always ascend slowly from a dive, especially after a deep dive. The recommended ascent rate is 30 feet per minute (9 meters per minute).
Making safety stops: Make safety stops at 10 feet (3 meters) and 20 feet (6 meters) during your ascent. This will give your body time to eliminate nitrogen.
Avoiding repeated dives: If you are planning to make multiple dives in a short period of time, be sure to allow for sufficient rest time between dives.
Staying hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before and after diving to help your body eliminate nitrogen.
Being aware of your risk factors: If you are overweight or obese, have a history of decompression sickness, or are taking certain medications, you should be especially careful to follow safe diving practices.
## Conclusion
Scuba diving is a safe and enjoyable activity, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved. By following safe diving practices, you can help to reduce your risk of decompression sickness.