Decompression sickness typically occurs when there is an excess of which gas in your body and you do what too quickly?

Decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," is primarily associated with nitrogen. This condition arises when a diver ascends too quickly after being exposed to high-pressure environments. When divers are at depths, nitrogen from the breathing gas dissolves into body tissues under pressure. If a diver ascends too rapidly, the decrease in pressure causes the nitrogen to come out of solution and form bubbles in the tissues and bloodstream.

Understanding the dynamics of gas absorption and release is crucial for safe diving practices. In this case, because nitrogen is the gas that gets absorbed and then released during rapid ascents, it directly relates to the onset of decompression sickness. Monitoring ascent rates and following safety stops helps mitigate the risk of this potentially serious condition.