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Wales, U.K.
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Freddy N.,

Lufkin, Texas

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Vujasinovic & Beckcom Blog

Diver Accident Lawyer

12/18/2008
Mindy
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Symptoms of Decompression Sickness Caused by Diving Accident

There is a serious condition, known as decompression sickness, which can affect commercial divers. Decompression sickness, also known as bends or Caisson’s Disease, can be fatal.

Decompression sickness occurs when the body is not able to release nitrogen. When a diver goes deep into the water, the atmospheric pressure rises, which causes the body to absorb a higher amount of nitrogen. Since this inert gas cannot be metabolized, it must be released. The longer the dive, the higher the amount of nitrogen that will be absorbed. If proper measures are not taken, nitrogen can form bubbles in the blood and body tissues, which will impact normal physiological function.

Almost half of all decompression sickness cases will occur within 90 minutes after a dive is complete and 95 percent will happen within 48 hours. Since it can potentially take a couple of days for this illness to surface, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms. The warning signs of decompression sickness depend on where the bubbles are located in the body. When the bubbles are in the large joints of the body, the diver may feel localized pain, which can be dull or sharp.

Bubbles that form in the brain, spinal cord or peripheral nerves can lead to symptoms of confusion, memory loss, headache, vision problems, fatigue, seizures, dizziness, vomiting or vertigo. As bubbles form in the lungs, the diver may experience burning chest pain, breathing pain, shortness of breath or dry constant cough. Bubbles in the skin can cause itching, mottled or marbled skin, swelling or a sensation of tiny insects crawling on the skin.

Since decompression sickness can be fatal, it is important to seek medical attention after experiencing symptoms. If you have been injured on a commercial dive, you may be entitled to compensation. Many times, diving companies can be held liable for injuries. Contact the experienced diving injury attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom P.L.L.C. at (713) 224-7800 or (877) 724-7800 for advice regarding your case.

The article, Decompression Sickness Resulting from Commercial Diving, has more information on this topic.

Labels: Caisson's Disease decompression sickness Diving injury diving injury attorney