Decompression sickness, also known as caisson disease, bends, staggers, or aerobolism, is caused by gas bubbles forming in the blood and tissues when a diver or aviator surfaces too quickly from high pressure. The rapid decrease in ambient pressure causes dissolved gases like nitrogen to come out of solution in the tissues and blood, forming bubbles that can obstruct blood vessels or block joints. Symptoms range from pain and rashes to paralysis or death depending on the location and severity of the blockages. Treatment involves recompression in a hyperbaric chamber to resolve the bubbles.