What does Decompression Illness (DCI) include?

Decompression Illness (DCI) comprises various conditions resulting from the formation of gas bubbles in the body's tissues or bloodstream as a diver ascends too quickly after being exposed to high-pressure environments. One significant component of DCI is Arterial Gas Embolism, which occurs when gas bubbles enter the arterial circulation and can lead to serious complications, such as tissue damage or stroke.

This condition arises primarily during rapid ascent when divers experience a sudden decrease in pressure, allowing dissolved gases in the body's tissues to come out of solution and form bubbles. If these bubbles enter the arteries, they can obstruct blood flow and cause a range of symptoms depending on where the blockage occurs.

In contrast, skin rashes, appendicitis, and dehydration do not fall under the specific definitions of DCI. While they can occur in divers, they are not caused by the rapid changes in pressure that characterize decompression illness. Understanding the nuances of DCI is crucial for divers to recognize risks and symptoms, potentially preventing severe consequences.