Decompression illness (DCI) is any of the diving disorders caused by the presence of bubbles of gas in the diver's body. These bubbles may be caused by:

• Gas embolism caused by breaks in the tissues surrounding body cavities due to high pressure gas. This is an example of barotrauma. The most common cause of gas embolisms is holding the breath during ascent, or the trapping of gas in the lungs and airways due to diseases such as asthma or the common cold.

• Decompression sickness caused by gas coming out of solution. See Decompression_stops for how to avoid this condition.

The most common symptoms include weakness; pain in the joints, torso or back; extreme fatigue; headaches; nausea; and numbness.

First Aid

First aid for DCI is administered by:

• Monitoring the victim for responsiveness, airway, breathing and circulation, to resucitate if necessary. The victim should be laid on his or her back or (for drowsy, unconscious, or nauseated victims) on their side.

• Administration of 100% oxygen a soon as possible.

• Seeking of immediate medical aid and consultation with a diving medical specialist.

• Assistance with transfer to a recompression chamber.

Details of recent dives and responses to first aid treatment should be recorded and provided to the treating medical specialist. The diving details should include depth and time profiles, breathing gases used and surface intervals.

The victim may be allowed to drink water or isotonic fluids only if they are responsive, stable, and not suffering from nausea or stomach pain. Administration of saline via intravenous drip is preferable.

Reference

• Diving First Aid Manual, John Lippmann and Stan Bugg, DAN SEAP Membership Edition