Decompression Illness (DCI) is a term used to describe both Decompression Sickness (DCS) The Bends, and Cerebral Arterial Gas Embolism (CAGE). It is caused by the expansion of inert gas bubbles (Nitrogen) into tissues on decreasing pressure. The tissues affected tend to be those tissues with a poorer blood supply, as the nitrogen is less readily removed.
Effects differ from person to person but varying predisposing factors are thought to heavily contribute to DCI even with correct procedures. Breath holding and air trapping in the lungs during ascent or decompression may also lead to DCI as well as some heart defects.
Types of Decompression illness/DCI: Type I (‘simple DCI’): for symptoms involving only the skin, musculoskeletal system or the lymphatic system. Type 2 (‘serious DCI’)” for symptoms where other organs (such as the central nervous system are involved.
