The Bends

The bends, also known as decompression sickness, occurs when a person ascends too quickly from deep underwater. While underwater, the body absorbs more nitrogen due to pressure. If a diver surfaces rapidly, the nitrogen forms bubbles in the body, which can cause pain, joint issues, and serious health problems. Symptoms can include dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. To prevent the bends, divers must ascend slowly and may perform safety stops to allow the body to eliminate excess nitrogen safely. Treatment often involves using a hyperbaric chamber to help reduce the bubbles and restore normal pressure.