Why Divers Get Decompression Sickness (the Bends)
Every scuba diver learns about decompression sickness (DCS) in diving, commonly known as “the bends.” It’s one of the most serious diving-related conditions, but many divers only understand it at a surface level. What actually causes DCS? Why does it affect some divers and not others, even on similar dives?
In this article, we’ll break down the science of decompression sickness, what symptoms to watch for, and the steps you can take to lower your risk.
What Is Decompression Sickness?
Decompression sickness occurs when dissolved gases, primarily nitrogen, come out of solution and form bubbles inside the body during or after a dive.
Key points on decompression sickness in diving:
Why Is It Called “the Bends”?
The term comes from the joint and muscle pain that was commonly reported in early cases among caisson and tunnel workers. Sufferers often bent over in pain, hence “the bends.”
While joint pain is still one of the hallmark symptoms, modern understanding recognizes that DCS can affect multiple body systems.
Symptoms of Decompression Sickness
Symptoms can appear within minutes to hours after surfacing, and range from mild to severe.
Common symptoms include:
Serious symptoms include:
Because symptoms vary widely, any unusual feeling after a dive should be taken seriously.
Risk Factors for DCS
Not every diver on a similar dive will develop DCS. Risk depends on several factors, including:
Prevention: How Divers Can Reduce the Risk
While the risk can’t be eliminated, divers can greatly reduce their chances of DCS with conservative practices:
What to Do if DCS Is Suspected
Final Thoughts
Decompression sickness is one of diving’s most serious risks, but with knowledge, planning, and safe habits, divers can minimize their exposure. Remember: even if you feel fine after a dive, your body is still processing nitrogen. Give it time, dive conservatively, and always listen to your body.
At Epic Diving, diver safety comes first. Fortunately, our dives are done in shallow, warm water where the risk of DCS is negligible. Whether exploring Tiger Beach or any of the world’s oceans, the more you understand about dive physiology, the safer, and more enjoyable, your dives will be.
FAQs About Decompression Sickness
Yes. Dive computers reduce risk but don’t eliminate it. Every diver’s physiology is different, and individual susceptibility varies.
Rarely, but yes. Long exposures, repetitive diving, or rapid ascents from even moderate depths can still trigger DCS.
Breathing 100% oxygen speeds up nitrogen elimination and reduces bubble size, buying time before hyperbaric treatment.
Modern statistics suggest DCS occurs in roughly 2–4 cases per 10,000 dives, but risks rise with technical or aggressive profiles.
Suggested Reading:
- Divers Alert Network (DAN) guide on decompression sickness
- Microbubbles and Silent Bubbles
