Dekompresjonsstopp

Dekompresjonsstopp, also known as decompression sickness or the bends, is a condition that occurs when a diver ascends too quickly from a deep dive, allowing dissolved gases in the bloodstream to form bubbles. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.

The condition is caused by the rapid reduction in pressure that occurs during ascent, which forces dissolved gases to come out of solution and form bubbles in the bloodstream and tissues. The most common gases involved are nitrogen and helium, although other gases can also be implicated.

Symptoms of dekompresjonsstopp can vary widely and may include joint pain, skin rashes, neurological symptoms, and in severe cases, paralysis or even death. The risk of developing the condition increases with the depth and duration of the dive, as well as the rate of ascent.

Prevention of dekompresjonsstopp involves careful planning and execution of dives, including adherence to established dive tables or computer algorithms that provide guidelines for safe ascent rates. Divers must also be aware of their individual tolerance for decompression and adjust their ascent rates accordingly.

Treatment of dekompresjonsstopp typically involves recompression therapy, where the affected individual is placed in a hyperbaric chamber and exposed to increased pressure to redissolve the bubbles. In severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary, including the administration of oxygen and other supportive care.

Dekompresjonsstopp is a well-recognized and understood condition in the diving community, and efforts are continually being made to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies to minimize its impact on divers.