dekompressziót

Dekompresszió, often referred to as decompression sickness (DCS), is a medical condition that can affect divers and others who ascend too rapidly from a high-pressure environment. It occurs when dissolved gases, primarily nitrogen, come out of solution in the body's tissues and form bubbles. This can happen when a person is exposed to increased ambient pressure, such as during scuba diving or working in a pressurized tunnel.

During exposure to increased pressure, gases are absorbed into the body's tissues. If the ascent to a lower pressure environment is too quick, these dissolved gases cannot be eliminated efficiently through respiration. Instead, they form gas bubbles within the tissues and bloodstream, similar to how carbonation forms in a soda bottle when the cap is removed.

The symptoms of dekompresszió can vary widely depending on the location and size of the bubbles. Mild symptoms may include joint pain (the "bends"), skin rash, and fatigue. More severe cases can lead to neurological problems such as dizziness, paralysis, difficulty speaking, or even unconsciousness. In extreme situations, dekompresszió can be fatal.

Prevention is key to avoiding dekompresszió. Divers are trained to ascend slowly and follow established dive tables or computer guidelines. These protocols ensure that the body has sufficient time to off-gas dissolved nitrogen safely. Treatment for dekompresszió typically involves recompression in a hyperbaric chamber, where the increased pressure helps to shrink the gas bubbles and allow them to be reabsorbed and eliminated more gradually. Supplementary oxygen is also administered.