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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/scuba-dcs-hyperbaric-chamber

What is the definitive treatment for decompression sickness?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a recompression chamber.

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  1. Going back underwater with a fresh tank
  2. Hyperbaric oxygen in a recompression chamber ✔
  3. Drinking lots of water

Why: A chamber puts the diver back under pressure while they breathe pure oxygen. That shrinks the bubbles and helps the body get rid of the nitrogen.

Huh, didn't know that: A common treatment, US Navy Treatment Table 6, starts at pressure equal to 60 feet of seawater.

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References

Answer: Hyperbaric oxygen in a recompression chamber. A chamber puts the diver back under pressure while they breathe pure oxygen. That shrinks the bubbles and helps the body get rid of the nitrogen.

  1. DAN: Treating Decompression Sickness dan.org/health-medicine/health-resource/dive-medical-reference-books/decompression-sickness/treating-dcs
    The definitive treatment for DCS is hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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