sukeltajantaudin

Sukeltajantauti, also known as decompression sickness (DCS), is a condition that can affect divers and individuals who have been exposed to rapid changes in ambient pressure. It occurs when gases dissolved in the body's tissues, primarily nitrogen, come out of solution and form bubbles as the surrounding pressure decreases too quickly. This typically happens during ascent from a dive or when exiting a pressurized environment like a caisson.

The symptoms of sukeltajantauti can vary widely depending on the severity and location of the gas bubbles. Mild cases may present with joint pain, often referred to as "the bends," skin rash, or itching. More severe forms can lead to neurological symptoms such as dizziness, paralysis, numbness, confusion, or even unconsciousness. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, chest pain, and in extreme cases, death.

Risk factors for developing sukeltajantauti include the depth and duration of exposure to pressure, the rate of ascent, dehydration, obesity, fatigue, and prior injury. Divers are trained in decompression procedures, which involve ascending slowly or making stops at specific depths to allow dissolved gases to be safely eliminated from the body.

Treatment for sukeltajantauti typically involves recompression, often in a hyperbaric chamber. This process gradually reduces the size of the gas bubbles and allows the body to reabsorb the gases. Supplemental oxygen is also administered to aid in gas elimination. Prompt medical attention is crucial for individuals suspected of having sukeltajantauti.