After a delay of 24 hours or more, treatment may be less effective, and symptoms may not respond. Even if there has been a delay, consult a diving medical specialist before making any conclusions about possible treatment effectiveness.
How long does it take to get rid of the bends?
The duration of "the dive" within the chamber varies, but can be up to 12 hours and sometimes longer. At this depth or chamber pressure, bubbles are reduced in size or reabsorbed to ensure adequate blood flow.
Will mild decompression sickness go away?
In some cases, symptoms may remain mild or even go away by themselves. Often, however, they strengthen in severity until you must seek medical attention, and they may have longer-term repercussions.Apr 30, 2018
How long do DCS symptoms last?
Symptoms start to become more serious at a depth of about 300 feet. Once a diver returns to the water's surface, the symptoms usually go away within a few minutes.
Can you get a mild case of the bends?
Generally, these symptoms are most common in people who are experiencing the bends in the brain or throughout the entire body. The third major symptom of the bends is a feeling of fatigue. This can happen in both extreme and mild cases of the condition.
What happens if you don't treat the bends?
Untreated joint pain that subsides could cause small areas of bone damage (osteonecrosis). If this happens through repeated instances of DCS, there may be enough damage to cause the bone to become brittle, or for joints to collapse or become arthritic.
How do you get rid of bends?
If DCS is suspected, it is treated by hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a recompression chamber. Diagnosis is confirmed by a positive response to the treatment. If treated early, there is a significantly higher chance of successful recovery.
How do you recover from DCS?
Administer 100 percent oxygen, and arrange emergency evacuation to the nearest medical facility. Always contact emergency medical services first, then contact DAN.Aug 4, 2020
Can you dive again after the bends?
If there is incomplete resolution of symptoms after treatment has been completed, a return to diving should be discouraged. Returning to diving after complete resolution of mild DCS is appropriate after a brief recovery period of a few weeks.Sep 1, 2016