DSC in diving generally refers to Decompression Sickness (DCS), a condition caused by gas bubbles forming in the body's tissues and bloodstream when a diver ascends too quickly or doesn't decompress adequately. These bubbles can block blood flow, damage tissues, and cause a range of symptoms.
Understanding Decompression Sickness (DCS)
Here's a more detailed explanation of DCS:
-
The Cause: During a dive, the body absorbs nitrogen from the breathing gas due to the increased pressure. If the diver ascends too rapidly, the dissolved nitrogen comes out of solution and forms bubbles.
-
The Process: The formation of these bubbles is similar to opening a carbonated beverage. When under pressure, more gas remains dissolved. Releasing that pressure results in the gas coming out of solution as bubbles. In the diver's body, these bubbles can lodge in various tissues, leading to DCS.
-
Common Symptoms: DCS can manifest in various ways, ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain (the "bends")
- Skin rashes or mottling
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Numbness or tingling
- Weakness
- Paralysis
- Unconsciousness
-
Risk Factors: Several factors can increase a diver's risk of DCS:
- Dive Profile: Deep dives and long bottom times increase nitrogen absorption.
- Ascent Rate: Rapid ascents don't allow enough time for nitrogen to be eliminated.
- Dehydration: Dehydration can reduce blood volume and make it harder for the body to eliminate nitrogen.
- Age and Fitness: Older divers and those with poor fitness may be at higher risk.
- Body Fat: Nitrogen is more soluble in fat, so divers with higher body fat percentages may absorb more nitrogen.
- Flying After Diving: Flying too soon after diving can expose the body to lower atmospheric pressure, which can exacerbate bubble formation.
-
Prevention: DCS is preventable by following safe diving practices:
- Plan Dives Carefully: Adhere to dive tables or dive computer recommendations for depth and bottom time.
- Ascend Slowly: Maintain a safe ascent rate, typically around 30 feet per minute.
- Make Safety Stops: Perform safety stops at designated depths (usually 15 feet) to allow for nitrogen elimination.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before and after diving.
- Avoid Flying After Diving: Follow recommended surface intervals before flying.
- Consider Enriched Air Nitrox: Using nitrox (a gas mixture with a higher oxygen percentage and lower nitrogen percentage) can reduce nitrogen loading.
-
Treatment: Treatment for DCS typically involves:
- Oxygen Therapy: Administering 100% oxygen helps to reduce the size of the nitrogen bubbles and improve oxygen delivery to affected tissues.
- Recompression Chamber: Recompression therapy involves placing the diver in a hyperbaric chamber, which increases the pressure and forces the nitrogen bubbles back into solution. The pressure is then slowly reduced to allow the nitrogen to be safely eliminated.
- Intravenous Fluids: IV fluids help to rehydrate the diver and improve blood flow.
In summary, Decompression Sickness (DCS) is a serious risk in diving that can be minimized with proper training, planning, and adherence to safe diving practices.
