Definitie & Betekenis van "decompression sickness"

What is "decompression sickness"?

Decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," is a condition that occurs when a person experiences a quick decrease in pressure, typically after diving or going up to very high places too quickly. This sudden change in pressure can cause nitrogen bubbles to form in the bloodstream and tissues, leading to various symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, dizziness, headache, or even more serious neurological or respiratory problems. Decompression sickness most commonly affects scuba divers, pilots, or individuals working in high-pressure environments. Treatment typically involves providing oxygen and gradually increasing pressure to safely remove nitrogen from the body. In serious cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be necessary to ease symptoms and prevent further complications.