Diver palsies, also known as Dysbaric Neurological Decompression Sickness (DNDS), refer to a set of neurological disorders that may occur as a result of rapid or improper decompression during scuba diving or other compressed air-related activities. This condition arises due to bubbles of inert gas, especially nitrogen, forming in the body tissues and blood, subsequently causing damage to the nervous system.
The symptoms of diver palsies typically include muscle weakness or paralysis, numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the limbs, difficulty coordinating movements or maintaining balance, muscle spasms, and impaired reflexes. These signs may vary in severity depending on the affected nerves and the extent of the damage. Additionally, divers may experience joint pain, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and altered consciousness.
The condition's name, "diver palsies," reflects the physical nature of the disorders since they often present as paralysis or palsy-like symptoms. While most commonly seen in divers, these palsies can also affect individuals in other high-risk environments with rapid changes in atmospheric pressure, such as pilots or compressed air workers.
Prompt response to diver palsies is crucial. Treatment typically involves the administration of 100% oxygen to speed up the elimination of nitrogen bubbles, as well as medical interventions such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Timely medical evaluation and decompression are vital to prevent further neurological damage, complications, and potentially fatal outcomes.
Preventive measures, such as adhering to safe diving practices, utilizing proper decompression procedures, and following pre-dive guidelines and dive limits, are essential to minimizing the risk of diver palsies.
