Which of the following are symptoms of Type 1 DCS?

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Type 1 Decompression Sickness (DCS) is characterized primarily by symptoms related to the musculoskeletal system and lymphatic system. Pain, marbling, and swelling are classic indicators of this condition, which involves the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the body's tissues as a result of rapid decompression after a dive.

The pain associated with Type 1 DCS often manifests in the joints and muscles, leading to what is commonly referred to as "the bends." Marbling refers to a specific skin condition where the skin appears mottled or discolored due to gas bubbles in the tissues. Swelling can occur due to the inflammatory response initiated by these bubbles disrupting normal circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Other symptoms such as nausea, chest tightness, and dizziness can occur in various decompression sickness presentations, particularly in Type 2 DCS, which affects the neurological and respiratory systems more intensively. In contrast, those symptoms do not specifically define Type 1 DCS, making the recognition of pain, marbling, and swelling critical for proper identification and response. Therefore, identifying these specific symptoms helps divers and medical personnel quickly ascertain the presence of Type 1 DCS and initiate appropriate treatment.

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