Dysbarism

Dysbarism refers to medical conditions resulting from changes in ambient pressure. Various forms of dysbarism include decompression sickness, barotrauma, pulmonary barotrauma, and arterial gas embolism. Dysbarism is not limited to only scuba divers, but can also affect individuals who work in pressurized environments, aviators, astronauts, and miners.

Causes

Dysbarism is caused by rapid changes in pressure that occur during ascent or descent in water, air, or through the earth's atmosphere. The human body is adapted to live at the earth's surface, and significant changes in pressure can cause various forms of dysbarism.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dysbarism can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include joint and muscle pain, dizziness, nausea, paralysis, unconsciousness, and death in severe cases. The symptoms can occur immediately after a rapid ascent or can be delayed for several hours.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dysbarism is primarily based on the patient's history and clinical symptoms. Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment of dysbarism involves recompression in a hyperbaric chamber, which increases the ambient pressure and allows the gas bubbles to dissolve back into the body tissues. In addition, medications may be used to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Prevention

Prevention of dysbarism involves proper training and adherence to safety procedures during diving, flying, or working in pressurized environments. This includes gradual ascent and descent to allow the body to adapt to changes in pressure.

See also

• Decompression sickness
• Barotrauma
• Pulmonary barotrauma
• Arterial gas embolism