the bends

English

Noun

the bends (uncountable)

1. (pathology) A sometimes fatal condition resulting from the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the blood and tissues, because of too rapid decompression, seen especially in deep-sea divers ascending rapidly from a dive. It is characterized by severe pains in the joints and chest, skin irritation, cramps, nausea, and paralysis.

Synonyms

• aeroembolism
• aeroemphysema
• caisson disease
• decompression sickness

Translations

decompression sickness — see decompression sickness

Anagrams

• bentshed