What is decompression sickness?

Decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," is a condition that results from the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the bloodstream and tissues. This phenomenon occurs when a diver surfaces too quickly after spending time underwater at increased pressures. While at depths, the body's tissues absorb nitrogen from the air we breathe, and if a diver ascends too rapidly, the reduction in pressure does not allow for a safe release of that nitrogen. As a result, nitrogen can form bubbles, leading to various symptoms ranging from joint pain to serious neurological issues.

Understanding this medical condition is critical for divers and supervisors, as it emphasizes the importance of controlled ascents and adherence to decompression stops during a dive. This ensures that nitrogen is released safely from the body, minimizing the risk of developing decompression sickness.

The other options describe different types of conditions or injuries that do not relate to the physiological risks associated with changes in pressure. For example, exposure to cold water can lead to hypothermia, underwater collisions relate to trauma rather than gas bubble formation, and prolonged exposure underwater does not inherently lead to decompression sickness unless specific pressure guidelines are not followed.