Diving injuries (decompression sickness and barotrauma)

Overview

Decompression sickness happens when nitrogen bubbles form after coming up too fast.

Barotrauma is damage from pressure changes in the ears, sinuses, or lungs.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Joint pain or numbness after diving
• Trouble breathing
• Confusion

Less common

• Ear pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Gas bubbles, pressure.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diving

Possible complications

• Burst eardrum: From pressure changes
• Collapsed lung (pneumothorax): From lung barotrauma

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Breathe oxygen if available
• Call 911 and DAN

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Ascend slowly
• Don't fly within 24 hours of diving

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Divers: Get training.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Fast oxygen helps.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Diving injuries (decompression sickness and barotrauma)