What can help prevent decompression sickness (DCS)?

Staying properly hydrated can significantly help prevent decompression sickness (DCS) during dives. When a diver is well-hydrated, their blood volume and circulation improve, which can assist in the effective removal of nitrogen from the body as the diver ascends to the surface. Proper hydration also supports overall physiological functioning, including the efficiency of the body's biological processes that manage gas exchanges.

In contrast, increasing dive duration can elevate the risk of DCS since prolonged exposure to high-pressure environments can lead to an accumulation of nitrogen in the body. Ascending rapidly to the surface is a dangerous practice that can cause nitrogen bubbles to form quickly, increasing the likelihood of DCS. Breathing pure nitrogen does not provide any benefit for preventing DCS, as this practice would not help in reducing the nitrogen absorbed during the dive; in fact, it could exacerbate the problem.

Overall, adequate hydration is key to helping manage nitrogen levels in the body and supports safe diving practices.