What is the treatment for Decompression Sickness?

• A. Recompression
• B. Diuretics administration
• C. Submersion longer
• D. No treatment needed

Answer: (A)

Decompression sickness is treated by recompression in a hyperbaric environment with high-concentration oxygen because the problem is bubble formation from dissolved inert gas (mostly nitrogen) after rapid ascent. When a diver is recompressed, the ambient pressure increases, causing the gas bubbles to shrink and helping nitrogen dissolve back into solution. Breathing 100% oxygen during this process speeds the washout of nitrogen from tissues and improves oxygen delivery to affected areas, reducing symptoms and preventing progression.

If hyperbaric treatment isn’t immediately available, giving 100% oxygen on the surface and arranging rapid transfer to a chamber is important, but diuretics aren’t helpful for DCS and delaying treatment or trying to extend submersion would worsen outcomes. No treatment is not appropriate because symptoms can progress and lead to serious complications.