Risk of DCS after skipping safety stop?

[Wayan]

We were diving with computers, with the core of the diving done around 40-45 feet. The computers definitely said we were fine (we each had one). I am more concerned about skipping the 3-minute stop. Can that be a problem?

Please remember that the computer is just that a computer. It does not guarantee that you will not have a dcs/dci event if you dive with IT'S limits. The figures it gives you for no deco time does not relate to your body but a theoretical mathematical algorithms.

Even doing a dive that is within the recreational dive table limits can and do lead to DCS.

If you are feel something abnormal after the dive that was not there before then you have no choice but to assume that there maybe a problem and get the appropriate 1st aid immediately. Taking drugs to mask the pain does not fix the problem.

Call DAN and get advice and breathe 100% O2. Not all cases of DCS need to be treated in the Hyperbaric Chamber, this is a Dr's decision.

Note that still in the Dive Fraternity one of the S+S that is still on top of the list is DENIAL.

 

[HBO MD]

You should try to remember that the computer works as an algorithm, and not a measure of your individual tissue levels. As such, the computer functions as a guide. Additionally, if there is going to be an area of risk it will be old areas of injury.
As physicians, we look at the associated story, risk factors, exposure etc. Had you presented to any chamber, you'd almost certainly be treated.

The first evidence of DCS is altered judgement. When in doubt, check your tables, contact DAN or anyone you trust who has Hyperbaric expertise. You have nothing to lose by pursuing that, and much to gain.
Good luck.

 

[elhajoui]

I have certainly learned my lesson for the future.

I woke up this morning with no pain at all anywhere. I'll stop by the dive shop and call DAN, but I think I got lucky...this time around. I won't do it again

Is getting my own computer and setting it with more conservative dive limits the best option? Suggestions?

 

[divinginn]

very slow accents from the safety stop to the surface help in my case,my elbow will tell me if I came up too fast,take it real slow the last 10 ft. and you should be good to go. Make sure you have plenty of air for your stops and don't push the deco limits of the computer.

 

[Dr Deco]

Hello elhajoui :

If the computer said that the dive was OK, then it is fine. Different computers can give different results as can different deco tables. Rest assured that there is considerable safety margin built into the system.

Safety stops are added for extra safety - they are not necessary.

- Real safety comes from avoiding high activity at the bottom and low activity at the surface.
- It comes from elimination of straining, pulling, and lifting on the surface.
- It comes from avoiding Valsalva-like maneuvers.

Dr Deco :doctor:

The next class in Decompression Physiology for 2009 is April 4 and 5. This class is on Catalina Island at the USC Marine Laboratory. Contact Karl Huggins at the web site: Advanced Decompression Physiology Seminar Information

 

[elhajoui]

Thanks Dr. Deco. Last time, you told me it wasn't DCS, and it wasn't - it was indeed tendonitis (probably from carrying the equipment). I had everything from complex blood work to two neurological exams, since I freaked out, and all came negative. It was just my muscle.

This time around, I felt a similar pain, which is something that comes and goes with tendonitis. I just came back from kayaking and, besides feeling a bit sore, my arm is OK. Maybe I should learn to stop being afraid of DCS, as this really makes my diving less enjoyable.

Thoughts? Advice? Anyone in similar situations?

 

[elhajoui]

Also, could tendonitis be aggravated by going at depths? how?

 

[Tigerman]

Thanks Dr. Deco. Last time, you told me it wasn't DCS, and it wasn't - it was indeed tendonitis (probably from carrying the equipment). I had everything from complex blood work to two neurological exams, since I freaked out, and all came negative. It was just my muscle.

This time around, I felt a similar pain, which is something that comes and goes with tendonitis. I just came back from kayaking and, besides feeling a bit sore, my arm is OK. Maybe I should learn to stop being afraid of DCS, as this really makes my diving less enjoyable.

Thoughts? Advice? Anyone in similar situations?

You should never stop considering the possibility and dangers of DCS - it IS a real threat given the right circumstances, but its unlikely as long as you dive within the recommended limits. Ignoring the option makes you careless and thats dangerous.

Aslo, although Dr Deco most likely is correct (especially given you dont have any symptoms atm) that its not DCS time, computers CAN give "wrong suggestions" with regards to being ok and not. People HAS gotten DCS diving within computer limits and within table limits..

 

[Dr Deco]

Hello Readers:

Yes, DCS is a possibility after many decompressions. With regard to computers or decompression tables, it depends on how close to the "Íimits" you are. "Limits" would be better described as a "hazard zone" that passes from green to red with shades in between. What Tigrman says is true.:cool2:

Some depressurizations are without risk, e.g., riding and elevator to the top of the Empire State Building or traveling in a passenger cabin of an airplane. While there exist some nitrogen supersaturation, the nuclei simply do not exist in size sufficient for expansion.

It is certainly true that the nitrogen loads ["doses"] in recreational diving can present problems. This is true when you perform strenuous activities following a dive.

Dr Deco :doctor:

The next class in Decompression Physiology for 2009 is April 4 and 5. This class is on Catalina Island at the USC Marine Laboratory. Contact Karl Huggins at the web site: Advanced Decompression Physiology Seminar Information