sukeldumishaigus

Sukeldumishaigus, also known as "diving disease" or "the bends," is a condition that can affect divers. It occurs when a diver ascends too quickly from a depth. During a dive, the increased pressure causes gases, primarily nitrogen, from the breathing mixture to dissolve into the body's tissues. If the diver ascends too rapidly, these dissolved gases do not have sufficient time to be expelled from the body in a controlled manner through breathing. As the pressure decreases, the dissolved gases form bubbles within the tissues and bloodstream, similar to opening a can of soda too quickly.

These gas bubbles can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms include joint pain (arthralgia), skin rashes or itching, and fatigue. More serious manifestations can involve neurological issues such as dizziness, numbness, paralysis, and even loss of consciousness. Other organs can also be affected, leading to breathing difficulties or circulatory problems. The severity of sukeldumishaigus depends on factors like the depth and duration of the dive, the rate of ascent, and the individual's physiological characteristics. Prevention is key, and divers are trained to ascend slowly and perform safety stops at specific depths to allow for gradual gas off-gassing. Treatment typically involves recompression in a hyperbaric chamber, which mimics the high pressure of the depth, helping to dissolve the gas bubbles and allow for safe off-gassing.