2. An experienced doctor in the field of emergency
medicine, Sam Gerson, MD, has experience
treating a wide variety of conditions. In
particular, as a board-certified physician in the
field of diving and hyperbaric medicine, Sam
Gerson, MD, helps people who are experiencing
decompression sickness as a result of a dive. Dr.
Samuel Gerson is also a SCUBA instructor.
While SCUBA diving is a popular and enjoyable
activity, it is important that a person receives
proper instruction on how to dive safely so that
they reduce the likelihood of suffering the effects
of decompression sickness following a dive.
3. Decompression sickness occurs when nitrogen bubbles
form in a person’s body as a result of surfacing from a
dive too quickly and can lead to paralysis or even death.
The symptoms of compression sickness vary, but may
include a headache or feelings of fatigue shortly after the
dive. Other possible symptoms include a rash, joint pain,
and weakness of the muscles.
In 90 percent of cases, the symptoms appear during the
six hours following the dive, with the symptoms often
appearing within the first hour. Therefore, it is important
to monitor one’s health carefully after a dive and seek
medical attention right away if decompression sickness is
suspected.
