When is pain most significantly experienced in decompression sickness?

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Pain associated with decompression sickness is most significantly experienced after surfacing. This condition occurs when a diver ascends too quickly, leading to the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the body as the pressure decreases. While symptoms can vary, pain is a common manifestation, especially in the joints or muscles, and typically arises after the dive when the diver is no longer under pressure.

During ascent, some symptoms might begin to manifest, but it is after surfacing that the diver’s body begins to react more noticeably to the rapid drop in pressure. This delayed response is critical for divers to understand, as they need to monitor their bodies closely once they are back at the surface.

Experiencing pain during a deep dive is less common since the pressures are higher, and the body's tissues are still saturated with nitrogen, thus minimizing bubble formation. Similarly, before a dive, divers do not typically experience the symptoms of decompression sickness, as these occur primarily after a change in pressure. Thus, the timing of when pain is most experienced is crucial for divers to remember for safety and health considerations.

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