Physiology of decompression

Physiology of Decompression is the study of the physical and biological changes that occur in the body of a diver during the process of decompression. This process involves the reduction of ambient pressure on the body, which can lead to the formation of gas bubbles if not managed correctly. The physiology of decompression is a critical aspect of diving medicine and underwater diving safety.

Overview

Decompression in diving is a process that allows divers to return to the surface safely after spending time at depth. The human body is adapted to live at atmospheric pressure, and changes in pressure can have significant physiological effects. The study of these effects is the focus of the physiology of decompression.

Gas Laws and Decompression

The physiological effects of decompression are primarily governed by the gas laws, specifically Henry's Law and Dalton's Law. These laws describe the behavior of gases under pressure and are fundamental to understanding the risks and management of decompression in diving.

Decompression Sickness

One of the primary risks associated with decompression is decompression sickness (DCS), also known as "the bends". DCS is a condition caused by gas, usually nitrogen, coming out of solution in the body and forming bubbles. These bubbles can cause a range of symptoms, from joint pain and rashes to paralysis and death.

Decompression Procedures

To avoid decompression sickness, divers follow specific decompression procedures. These procedures involve ascending slowly and making decompression stops at certain depths to allow gas to be eliminated from the body safely.

Decompression Models

Decompression models are mathematical representations of the physiological processes involved in decompression. These models, such as the Bühlmann decompression algorithm, are used to calculate decompression schedules for divers.

See Also

• Diving medicine
• Underwater diving
• Decompression (diving)
• Decompression sickness
• Gas laws
• Henry's law
• Dalton's law
• Bühlmann decompression algorithm

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  Physiology of decompression
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  Tissue half times
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  Partial pressures in tissues