What are the potential consequences of ascending too quickly?

Ascending too quickly while diving can lead to decompression sickness (DCS) or barotrauma. When a diver ascends rapidly, the pressure decreases more quickly than the body can safely off-gas nitrogen, which is absorbed by tissues during the dive. This rapid change can lead to nitrogen forming bubbles in the bloodstream, which can cause a range of symptoms from joint pain to paralysis and even death if not treated promptly.

Barotrauma refers to injuries caused by rapid pressure changes affecting air-filled spaces in the body, such as the lungs or sinuses. If a diver ascends too quickly, the expanding air in these spaces can cause serious injury. This is particularly relevant if the diver holds their breath while ascending, as the air expanding in the lungs can lead to ruptures and potential lung over-expansion injuries.

The understanding of these risks emphasizes the importance of controlled ascents. Divers are trained to follow specific ascent rates and safety stops to mitigate these risks, ensuring that the physiological changes can occur safely.