SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Practice Exam

What are the signs and symptoms of decompression sickness?

1. Headaches and fatigue

2. Muscle cramps and vision problems

3. Nausea, pain in joints, tingling, numbness

4. All the above

The correct answer is: Nausea, pain in joints, tingling, numbness

Decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," occurs when a diver ascends too quickly, leading to nitrogen bubbles forming in the body. The signs and symptoms associated with this condition can vary widely, but they commonly include nausea, pain in joints, and neurological effects such as tingling or numbness. These specific symptoms arise due to the formation of bubbles in the bloodstream and tissues, which can disrupt normal bodily functions and lead to significant distress. While other symptoms like headaches and fatigue, as well as muscle cramps and vision problems, can occur in divers for various reasons, they are not the hallmark signs of decompression sickness. The primary indicators that highlight the condition involve the specific combination of nausea, joint pain, and neurological symptoms, which directly reflect the physiological disturbances caused by nitrogen bubbles. Understanding these particular symptoms is essential for identifying and responding to decompression sickness effectively during diving situations.