Nitrogen narcosis: Difference between revisions
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[[File:Protected-narc structure.png|thumb|Protected narc structure]] | {{Infobox medical condition | ||
| name = Nitrogen narcosis | |||
| image = [[File:Trimix_label.png|250px]] | |||
| caption = Trimix label, a gas mixture used to prevent nitrogen narcosis | |||
| synonyms = Inert gas narcosis, raptures of the deep | |||
| specialty = [[Diving medicine]] | |||
| symptoms = Euphoria, impaired judgment, motor control issues, dizziness | |||
| onset = Rapid, during [[scuba diving]] at depths greater than 30 meters | |||
| duration = Temporary, resolves upon ascent | |||
| causes = Increased partial pressure of [[nitrogen]] in the brain | |||
| risks = Deep diving, use of air as a breathing gas | |||
| prevention = Use of [[helium]]-based gas mixtures, limiting depth | |||
| treatment = Ascend to a shallower depth | |||
| prognosis = Excellent with proper management | |||
| frequency = Common in deep diving without proper gas mixtures | |||
}} | |||
[[File:Protected-narc structure.png|left|thumb|Protected narc structure]] | |||
'''Nitrogen narcosis''' is a [[neurological]] condition that occurs in [[scuba divers]] who dive at depths greater than 30 meters (98 feet). It is caused by the [[dissolved gases]] in the body, particularly [[nitrogen]], which can have a narcotic effect under high pressure. The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis can vary, but often include impaired judgment, confusion, and a lack of coordination. In severe cases, it can be fatal. | '''Nitrogen narcosis''' is a [[neurological]] condition that occurs in [[scuba divers]] who dive at depths greater than 30 meters (98 feet). It is caused by the [[dissolved gases]] in the body, particularly [[nitrogen]], which can have a narcotic effect under high pressure. The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis can vary, but often include impaired judgment, confusion, and a lack of coordination. In severe cases, it can be fatal. | ||
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==Causes== | ==Causes== | ||
Nitrogen narcosis is caused by the increased pressure of dissolved gases in the body. When a diver descends, the pressure of the surrounding water increases, and the gases in the diver's [[breathing gas]] are absorbed more readily into the body. Nitrogen, which makes up the majority of the breathing gas, can have a narcotic effect under these conditions. | Nitrogen narcosis is caused by the increased pressure of dissolved gases in the body. When a diver descends, the pressure of the surrounding water increases, and the gases in the diver's [[breathing gas]] are absorbed more readily into the body. Nitrogen, which makes up the majority of the breathing gas, can have a narcotic effect under these conditions. | ||
==Symptoms== | ==Symptoms== | ||
The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis can vary widely, but often include impaired judgment, confusion, and a lack of coordination. Divers may also experience a sense of euphoria, similar to the effects of [[alcohol intoxication]]. In severe cases, nitrogen narcosis can cause unconsciousness or death. | The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis can vary widely, but often include impaired judgment, confusion, and a lack of coordination. Divers may also experience a sense of euphoria, similar to the effects of [[alcohol intoxication]]. In severe cases, nitrogen narcosis can cause unconsciousness or death. | ||
==Prevention and Treatment== | ==Prevention and Treatment== | ||
The best way to prevent nitrogen narcosis is to limit the depth of dives. Divers can also use a [[helium]]-based breathing gas, which does not have the same narcotic effect as nitrogen. If a diver begins to experience symptoms of nitrogen narcosis, they should ascend to a shallower depth until the symptoms subside. In severe cases, emergency medical treatment may be necessary. | The best way to prevent nitrogen narcosis is to limit the depth of dives. Divers can also use a [[helium]]-based breathing gas, which does not have the same narcotic effect as nitrogen. If a diver begins to experience symptoms of nitrogen narcosis, they should ascend to a shallower depth until the symptoms subside. In severe cases, emergency medical treatment may be necessary. | ||
==See Also== | ==See Also== | ||
* [[Decompression sickness]] | * [[Decompression sickness]] | ||
* [[Oxygen toxicity]] | * [[Oxygen toxicity]] | ||
* [[Scuba diving]] | * [[Scuba diving]] | ||
[[Category:Underwater diving]] | [[Category:Underwater diving]] | ||
[[Category:Medical conditions]] | [[Category:Medical conditions]] | ||
[[Category:Neurological disorders]] | [[Category:Neurological disorders]] | ||
{{stub}} | {{stub}} | ||
Latest revision as of 06:22, 8 April 2025
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC
| Nitrogen narcosis | |
|---|---|
| |
| Synonyms | Inert gas narcosis, raptures of the deep |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | Diving medicine |
| Symptoms | Euphoria, impaired judgment, motor control issues, dizziness |
| Complications | N/A |
| Onset | Rapid, during scuba diving at depths greater than 30 meters |
| Duration | Temporary, resolves upon ascent |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Increased partial pressure of nitrogen in the brain |
| Risks | Deep diving, use of air as a breathing gas |
| Diagnosis | N/A |
| Differential diagnosis | N/A |
| Prevention | Use of helium-based gas mixtures, limiting depth |
| Treatment | Ascend to a shallower depth |
| Medication | N/A |
| Prognosis | Excellent with proper management |
| Frequency | Common in deep diving without proper gas mixtures |
| Deaths | N/A |
Nitrogen narcosis is a neurological condition that occurs in scuba divers who dive at depths greater than 30 meters (98 feet). It is caused by the dissolved gases in the body, particularly nitrogen, which can have a narcotic effect under high pressure. The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis can vary, but often include impaired judgment, confusion, and a lack of coordination. In severe cases, it can be fatal.
Causes[edit]
Nitrogen narcosis is caused by the increased pressure of dissolved gases in the body. When a diver descends, the pressure of the surrounding water increases, and the gases in the diver's breathing gas are absorbed more readily into the body. Nitrogen, which makes up the majority of the breathing gas, can have a narcotic effect under these conditions.
Symptoms[edit]
The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis can vary widely, but often include impaired judgment, confusion, and a lack of coordination. Divers may also experience a sense of euphoria, similar to the effects of alcohol intoxication. In severe cases, nitrogen narcosis can cause unconsciousness or death.
Prevention and Treatment[edit]
The best way to prevent nitrogen narcosis is to limit the depth of dives. Divers can also use a helium-based breathing gas, which does not have the same narcotic effect as nitrogen. If a diver begins to experience symptoms of nitrogen narcosis, they should ascend to a shallower depth until the symptoms subside. In severe cases, emergency medical treatment may be necessary.
