Decompression Sickness Symptoms

As the symptoms for Decompression Sickness (aka Decompression Illness, or DCI) are so diverse, any symptom that cannot be readily explained after diving or other hyperbaric exposure should be assumed to be DCI until proven otherwise. Call our emergency number in the UK on 07 999 292 999 for free advice 24/7 all year round.

DCI (Decompression Illness) Symptoms

Severe DCI is relatively easy to identify as the signs and symptoms can be fairly obvious. However, in many cases of DCI the symptoms are only minor, such as: Altered consciousness, balance and coordination problems, memory problems numbness or tingling, joint pains, and muscular weakness.

Often these symptoms are initially put down to fatigue, over-exertion, lifting of heavy objects such as diving tanks, badly fitting equipment or the cold.

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Altered consciousness

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Balance and coordination problems

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Memory problems

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Headache

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Nausea and vomiting

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Vertigo

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Numbness and tingling

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Joint pain

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Unusual fatigue

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Paralysis

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Skin rashes

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Difficulty walking/standing

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Muscular weakness

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Difficulty urinating

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Difficulty breathing

  1. Altered consciousness
  2. Balance and coordination problems
  3. Memory problems
  4. Headache
  5. Nausea and vomiting
  6. Vertigo
  7. Numbness and tingling
  8. Joint pain
  9. Unusual fatigue
  10. Paralysis
  11. Skin rashes
  12. Difficulty walking/standing
  13. Muscular weakness
  14. Difficulty urinating
  15. Difficulty breathing.

Don’t leave anything to chance – if you aren’t sure about something, get professional advice without delay.

Call our emergency number in the UK on 07 999 292 999.
We are available 24 hours a day, all year round.
Get free advice and referrals for NHS-funded treatment.