What does the acronym DCI stand for in diving terminology?

DCI stands for Decompression Illness, which is a serious condition that can occur when a diver ascends too quickly after a dive. This illness is primarily caused by nitrogen bubbles forming in the body due to a rapid reduction in pressure. As divers descend, their bodies absorb nitrogen from the breathing gas; if they ascend too rapidly, the decrease in pressure can result in nitrogen coming out of solution and forming bubbles in tissues or bloodstream.

Understanding DCI is crucial for divers, especially those operating in environments where prolonged submerged periods and decompression obligations might be present, such as cavern diving. Knowledge of how to recognize symptoms of DCI, which can include joint pain, dizziness, and difficulty breathing, aids divers in emergency management and reinforces the importance of proper ascent rates and decompression stops during their dives.