What are the indications of potential decompression sickness?

The indication of potential decompression sickness includes joint pain, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," occurs when a diver ascends too quickly, causing nitrogen absorbed at greater depths to form bubbles in the body. These bubbles can cause various symptoms, most notably pain in the joints, which is typically described as a deep aching sensation.

Dizziness can result from bubbles affecting the central nervous system, which may disrupt normal brain function. Fatigue is often experienced due to the body's struggle to deal with the effects of nitrogen bubbles, and difficulty breathing may arise if the bubbles affect lung function. These symptoms represent a combination of mild and serious manifestations of the condition, indicating that immediate attention is required. Recognizing these signs is crucial for divers to seek treatment promptly to avoid severe complications.