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
The Bends Follow-upFollow up immediately for any further signs or symptoms of decompression illness within the next 7 days. After suffering decompression sickness, individuals should not dive again until cleared by a doctor. Depending on the severity of symptoms, and if the person has suffered decompression sickness before, the doctor will likely recommend not to dive again or to avoid diving for some amount of time. Next Page: Must Read Articles Related to Decompression Syndromes: The Bends
Abdominal Pain in Adults
Abdominal pain in adults can range from a mild stomach ache to severe pain. Examples of causes of abdominal pain in adults include appendicitis, gallbladder dis...learn more >>
Barotrauma/Decompression Sickness
Barotrauma and decompression sickness refers to medical problems that occur during diving. These problems include decompression illness (the bends), external ea...learn more >>
Joint Pain
Joint pain can be caused by injury or disease affecting any of the ligaments, bursae, or tendons surrounding the joint. Pain also occurs with joint inflammation...learn more >>
Viewer Comments & ReviewsDecompression Syndromes: The Bends - ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your experience with decompression sickness. |
Women's Health
Find out what women really need.
From WebMD
Healthy Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape
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.
Featured Topics
Medical Dictionary
Pill Identifier on RxList
- quick, easy,
pill identification
Find a Local Pharmacy
- including 24 hour, pharmacies
