Dekompressionsrisiken

Dekompressionsrisiken, commonly referred to as decompression sickness (DCS) or "the bends," are physiological issues that can arise when a person experiences a rapid decrease in ambient pressure. This typically occurs in divers who ascend too quickly from depth or in individuals who work in pressurized environments, such as caisson workers.

The primary cause of DCS is the formation of gas bubbles in bodily tissues and the bloodstream. During exposure to increased pressure, gases, primarily nitrogen, dissolve into the body's tissues. When the pressure is reduced too quickly, this dissolved gas cannot be eliminated from the body at a sufficient rate. Instead, it comes out of solution, forming bubbles.

The symptoms of DCS vary widely depending on the location and size of these bubbles. Mild symptoms can include joint pain, skin rash, and itching. More severe manifestations can involve neurological issues such as dizziness, paralysis, confusion, and even unconsciousness. In extreme cases, DCS can be fatal.

Prevention of decompression risks is paramount. Divers adhere to strict dive tables and decompression stops, which allow for a gradual release of dissolved gases. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential for anyone working in environments where rapid pressure changes are possible. Treatment for DCS typically involves recompression in a hyperbaric chamber, which helps to reduce the size of the bubbles and allow the body to reabsorb the gases safely.