Gasbellenziekte

Gasbellenziekte, also known as decompression sickness (DCS), is a medical condition that can affect divers, caisson workers, and individuals exposed to rapid changes in ambient pressure. It occurs when dissolved gases, primarily nitrogen, in the body's tissues form bubbles during a decrease in pressure. This typically happens when a person ascends too quickly from a depth or a pressurized environment.

The formation of gas bubbles can obstruct blood flow, leading to a variety of symptoms. These can range from mild joint pain and skin rashes to more severe neurological issues like dizziness, paralysis, and even death. The severity of gasbellenziekte depends on factors such as the depth and duration of exposure, the rate of ascent, and individual physiological differences.

Treatment for gasbellenziekte involves recompression, usually in a hyperbaric chamber. This process gradually reduces the size of the gas bubbles by increasing the surrounding pressure, allowing the dissolved gases to safely return to solution and be eliminated by the body. Prevention is key, and divers are trained in proper ascent rates and decompression stops to minimize the risk of DCS.