What are some common symptoms of decompression sickness?

Decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," occurs when a diver ascends too quickly, causing nitrogen dissolved in their tissues to form bubbles. This can lead to various symptoms, many of which are associated with the specific areas of the body affected.

Joint pain and numbness are particularly common symptoms. The accumulation of nitrogen bubbles in joints can cause sharp, severe pain, often referred to as "the bends" due to the bending of the body to alleviate discomfort. Numbness can arise if these bubbles affect nerve pathways, which can lead to neurological symptoms as well. Observing these symptoms quickly is essential for treatment, as they indicate the need for immediate medical attention and possible recompression therapy.

While other symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, high blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat are sometimes associated with decompression sickness, they can also be linked to various other conditions. Therefore, joint pain and numbness specifically highlight the body's reaction to nitrogen bubbles at a physiological level, making this answer particularly relevant and aligned with established medical understanding of decompression sickness.