During a dive, what does the term 'decompression sickness' refer to?

Decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," is related to the effects of pressure changes experienced during a dive. As a diver descends, the pressure increases, allowing the body to absorb more nitrogen from the breathing gas. If a diver ascends too quickly after spending a significant amount of time at depths, the reduction in pressure may cause nitrogen bubbles to form in the tissues or bloodstream. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including joint pain, dizziness, and even serious complications affecting the nervous system.

The correct answer highlights the importance of adhering to safe diving practices, such as maintaining proper ascent rates and allowing for decompression stops, to minimize the risk of developing this condition. Understanding decompression sickness is crucial for safe diving and ensuring divers take necessary precautions to avoid this potentially life-threatening situation.