Pain (in the joints) is a sign of Decompression Sickness Type 1.

• A. Type 1
• B. Type 2
• C. Cardiopulmonary
• D. Inner Ear

Answer: (A)

Joint pain is a hallmark of Decompression Sickness Type I. When a diver ascends, nitrogen coming out of solution forms bubbles in tissues and around joints, causing the characteristic musculoskeletal pain often called the bends. Type I typically involves joints, skin changes, and swelling, without the more serious neurological or cardiopulmonary symptoms. In contrast, Type II includes signs affecting the nervous system, brain, spinal cord, lungs, or inner ear. Because joint pain aligns with the musculoskeletal, non-neurological presentation of Type I, it’s the best fit for this sign.