Dive smart: Avoiding the bends

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How to avoid the bends

Decompression sickness (DCS), commonly referred to as “the bends,” is a condition caused by a rapid change in pressure. It is primarily a concern for scuba divers as they ascend, and also, if proper precautions are not taken, it can lead to unpleasant symptoms. Fortunately, scuba divers typically receive training on how to prevent DCS as part of their certification process.

What are the bends?

1. It’s a medical condition triggered by ascending too quickly.

• When diving, you breathe compressed air containing nitrogen. Underwater pressure allows nitrogen to dissolve safely in your body. However, ascending too quickly prevents the nitrogen from dissipating, leading to the formation of bubbles that cause various problems collectively known as decompression sickness.
• DCS can also occur in occupations such as tunnel construction, mineral mining, or space exploration, as well as during depressurized flights. However, preventive measures are typically in place for these activities.

2. Symptoms include joint pain, fatigue, and ear or sinus discomfort.

• Rapid ascent may result in ear, nose, or mouth discomfort, itching, intense joint pain, fatigue, dizziness as well as difficulty moving. Also, more severe cases may involve paralysis, loss of bladder control, or unconsciousness. Hence, seeking medical attention is crucial if any symptoms occur.
• In extreme cases, individuals may also experience paralysis, bladder or sexual dysfunction, or muscle weakness. So, prompt medical treatment is essential to prevent permanent damage.

Can the bends be fatal?

• Unfortunately, yes; untreated decompression sickness can lead to death. This is because nitrogen bubbles reaching the brain, or lungs can cause strokes, seizures, or heart attacks. Also, paralysis and permanent damage to the brain, heart, or lungs are common consequences. However, timely treatment significantly improves the chances of recovery.
• In addition, emergency treatment is vital to prevent irreversible damage. The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome.

How can the bends be prevented?

1. Use dive tables to ascend quickly.

• Preventing DCS involves ascending in stages with breaks at intervals to allow the body to adjust to pressure changes. Dive tables provide guidelines for the depth and duration of these breaks.
• Dive tables are essential for all divers and are typically provided by instructors or dive partners. So, new divers must learn to interpret dive tables as part of their certification process.
• A general rule is to pause every 15 feet (4.6 m) for 5 minutes. Dive computers often incorporate these tables into their software.

2. Avoid diving with certain medical conditions.

• Individuals with untreated hernias, heart defects, or asthma are at increased risk of DCS and should refrain from diving. Diabetes can also affect susceptibility to pressure changes and should be considered.
• Colds, coughs, or chest infections can exacerbate symptoms and should preclude diving until resolved.

3. Maintaining a healthy weight.

• Being overweight increases the risk of DCS because excess body fat may impede nitrogen elimination. Maintaining a healthy BMI reduces this risk but does not replace adherence to safety protocols.
• Alcohol consumption should be avoided before diving as it prolongs nitrogen elimination.

4. Use Nitrox gas mixture

• Nitrox, with lower nitrogen content, reduces the likelihood of DCS. However, it is more expensive than standard gas mixtures.

5. Take extended breaks between dives.

• Extended breaks allow the body to eliminate excess nitrogen. Diving instructors, in particular, should prioritize rest periods between sessions to minimize the risk of DCS.
• After recovering from DCS, wait at least 30 days before diving again.

At what depth do the bends occur?

1. The bends are a significant concern beyond 30 feet (9.1 m).

• Deeper dives increase the risk of DCS upon rapid ascent. Adhering to dive tables and monitoring pressure gauge readings is essential for safe ascent.
• Dive tables often commence at 35 feet (11 m) to address the risk associated with depths beyond 30 feet (9.1 m).

2. The bends can occur at 10–20 feet (3.0–6.1 m) under certain circumstances.

• Although less common, prolonged shallow dives may lead to DCS if ascent is too rapid. Ascending slowly and taking breaks near the surface mitigate this risk.

Can the bends be cured?

• Yes, treatment in a hyperbaric chamber is effective in reversing DCS symptoms. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy facilitates the dissolution of nitrogen bubbles, leading to symptom relief. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent permanent damage.
• All hospitals are equipped to provide hyperbaric treatment, ensuring accessibility in case of DCS.

Will the bends resolve on their own?

• No, untreated DCS can result in irreversible damage. Even minor symptoms warrant emergency medical attention to prevent long-term complications.
• Permanent bladder dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, or muscle weakness may result from untreated DCS.

Is it true you cannot fly after diving?

• Yes, flying within 24 hours of diving is not recommended due to the risk of DCS. Although rare, the possibility of nitrogen bubbles forming during flight necessitates caution.
• Adhering to the 24-hour rule minimizes the risk of DCS during air travel following diving activities.

Conclusion

To sum up, staying safe while diving means following the rules and knowing the risks. By diving slowly, taking breaks, and seeking help if you feel unwell, you can reduce your chances of getting the bends. Remember, safety first for a fun dive every time!