What is one of the symptoms of Decompression Sickness (DCS) type 1?

Joint pain is one of the primary symptoms associated with Decompression Sickness (DCS) type 1, often colloquially referred to as "the bends." This condition typically arises when a diver ascends too quickly, allowing nitrogen, which is absorbed by the body under pressure, to come out of solution and form bubbles. When these bubbles form in tissues or joints, they can lead to significant pain and discomfort, usually felt in areas such as the shoulders, elbows, knees, and back.

This symptom, referred to as "the bends" due to the way that affected individuals often bend in response to joint pain, is critical for divers to recognize. It signals that appropriate medical treatment is needed to address the condition effectively. Other symptoms of DCS may include neurological effects or respiratory problems, but joint pain is the hallmark symptom of type 1 DCS, which distinguishes it from type 2 DCS, which involves more severe symptoms and complications.