Decompression Illness Symptoms

• Decompression illness symptoms generally begin within 6-48 hours after diving.



• Type I symptoms include aching of joints, most commonly the elbow and shoulder joints, mottling of the skin, itching, and rash.



• Type II symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, numbness and tingling, and chest pain. Less common symptoms include coughing, difficulty urinating, loss of bowel or bladder control, blood in the stools, ringing in the ears, hearing loss, and shortness of breath. Very severe symptoms include paralysis, seizures, slurred speech, loss of vision, confusion, and coma. Death can occur.