Type 2 decompression sickness typically presents with which symptoms?

Type 2 decompression sickness typically presents with which symptoms?

• A. Abdominal pain without other symptoms.
• B. Neurological symptoms such as numbness, weakness, dizziness, and possible inner-ear symptoms.
• C. Only joint pain.
• D. Isolated skin rash with no neurologic signs.

Answer: (B)

Type 2 decompression sickness involves the nervous system and often the inner ear, so the typical presentation is neurologic impairment from gas bubbles in the brain or spinal cord, with symptoms such as numbness, weakness, dizziness, and paresthesias, and possible inner-ear signs like tinnitus or vertigo. This neuro focus distinguishes it from patterns seen with Type 1 DCS, which emphasize joint or skin symptoms; abdominal pain without neuro signs or a rash alone are not characteristic of Type 2. Recognizing this neurologic-plus-ear symptom cluster is crucial because it calls for urgent treatment with 100% oxygen and rapid recompression therapy.

Type 2 decompression sickness involves the nervous system and often the inner ear, so the typical presentation is neurologic impairment from gas bubbles in the brain or spinal cord, with symptoms such as numbness, weakness, dizziness, and paresthesias, and possible inner-ear signs like tinnitus or vertigo. This neuro focus distinguishes it from patterns seen with Type 1 DCS, which emphasize joint or skin symptoms; abdominal pain without neuro signs or a rash alone are not characteristic of Type 2. Recognizing this neurologic-plus-ear symptom cluster is crucial because it calls for urgent treatment with 100% oxygen and rapid recompression therapy.