What are the symptoms of decompression sickness?

Decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," occurs when a diver ascends too quickly, causing nitrogen bubbles to form in the bloodstream and tissues. The symptoms associated with this condition can vary, but they typically include joint pain, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.

Joint pain is one of the most commonly reported symptoms, often presenting as discomfort in the joints similar to the sensation of being "bent." Dizziness may arise due to changes in pressure affecting the inner ear and balance, while fatigue can occur as the body struggles to cope with the physiological stress of the condition. Difficulty breathing may also manifest due to bubbles interfering with normal respiratory function.

In contrast, the other options contain symptoms that are not in line with the recognized effects of decompression sickness, making them less relevant to the condition. While severe headaches and nausea, as mentioned in one of the incorrect options, can occur due to various diving ailments, they are not classic indicators of decompression sickness. Hallucinations and confusion are typically associated with other medical conditions rather than the physiological manifestations of decompression sickness. Therefore, the choice that includes joint pain, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty breathing accurately captures the primary symptoms of decompression sickness.