The bends, also known as decompression sickness (DCS), is a condition that occurs when dissolved gases, mainly nitrogen, come out of solution in the bloodstream, forming gas bubbles in the circulation. It is caused by rapid changes in pressure during activities such as scuba diving or exposure to high altitudes. The condition is called "the bends" because the joint and bone pains can be so severe that they double a person over.
Symptoms of the bends can include joint pain, fatigue, low back pain, paralysis or numbness of the legs, weakness or numbness in the arms, as well as other associated signs and symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, vomiting, ringing in the ears, head or neck pain, and loss of consciousness.
The treatment for the bends typically involves recompression in a hyperbaric chamber to reduce the size of the gas bubbles and to accelerate the elimination of nitrogen from the body. This treatment helps to alleviate the symptoms and prevent further complications.
In summary, the bends is a serious condition caused by the formation of gas bubbles in the bloodstream and other tissues due to rapid changes in pressure, and it requires prompt and appropriate treatment to avoid severe consequences.
