DAN_World_Alert_Diver_Q1_2019

Serious DCS

SYMPTOMS OF DCS

Numbness, tingling or muscular weakness Difficulty walking or loss of coordination Confusion or impairment of cognitive functions Vertigo or spinning sensation Chest pain or difficulty breathing Bladder or bowel dysfunction Tinnitus or hearing loss

Mild DCS

Musculoskeletal or joint pain Skin rashes, mottling or swelling Tissue tenderness associated with skin manifestations Mild constitutional symptoms

DAN Comment While the diver’s symptoms in this case were mild, they were persistent. The diver was evacuated to Singapore and received two treatments, and unfortunately DAN’s advice to avoid flying for at least a week was not followed. In many cases divers are cleared to fly after three days from their final treatment if they remain asymptomatic. This is often fine and many divers following this advice have no further issues – although a small number will. In this case, the advice by DAN was greater than the doctor’s recommendation as DAN factored in the remoteness of the diver’s location. Once the diver flew home to Timor, should symptoms reappear he would be back in the same situation: In a location that was not equipped with higher level medical care, including a chamber. Flying aggravated the diver’s condition, as he likely had residual bubbles in his system, and as such it will take a longer time for his persistent symptoms to fully resolve. This case serves as an important reminder to adhere to the advice of DAN, as our case managers factor in all aspects of a diver’s situation when providing advice.

For more diving health and safety resources, including DAN Doc, visit “Diving Safety” at DANAP.org DAN TIP

Stephen Frink

| DAN 117