Decompression Syndromes: The Bends (cont.)
Medical Author:
Scott D. Fell, DO, FAAEM
Medical Editor:
Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD
Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhDDr. Charles "Pat" Davis, MD, PhD, is a board certified Emergency Medicine doctor who currently practices as a consultant and staff member for hospitals. He has a PhD in Microbiology (UT at Austin), and the MD (Univ. Texas Medical Branch, Galveston). He is a Clinical Professor (retired) in the Division of Emergency Medicine, UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, and has been the Chief of Emergency Medicine at UT Medical Branch and at UTHSCSA with over 250 publications. IN THIS ARTICLE
When to Seek Medical CareAny victim reporting signs or symptoms of decompression illness that began within 48 hours of scuba diving should be seen by a doctor at an emergency care facility immediately. The doctor will likely presume that a victim reporting symptoms within 48 hours of surfacing from a scuba dive to have decompression illness. It is important to inform the doctor of your recent diving experience and of your symptoms. Next Page: Must Read Articles Related to Decompression Syndromes: The Bends
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Viewer Comments & ReviewsDecompression Syndromes: The Bends - ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your experience with decompression sickness. |
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Decompression Sickness »
Although decompression sickness (DCS), a complex resulting from changed barometric pressure, includes high-altitude–related and aerospace-related events, this article focuses on decompression associated with the sudden decrease in pressures during underwater ascent, usually occurring during free or assisted dives.
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