the bends
English[edit]
Noun[edit]
- (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[edit]
Translations[edit]
decompression sickness — see decompression sickness