What factors could increase the risk of decompression sickness?

The risk of decompression sickness increases significantly with rapid ascents and flying soon after diving due to the rapid decrease in pressure that occurs in these situations. When divers ascend too quickly, nitrogen, which has been absorbed into their bodies under high pressure, can form bubbles as the pressure decreases. These bubbles can cause pain and potentially serious health issues as they expand within the tissues and bloodstream.

Additionally, flying shortly after diving poses similar risks. At cruising altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is much lower than at sea level. If a diver ascends and then flies, any nitrogen bubbles that have formed or are still dissolved in the blood may expand, leading to symptoms of decompression sickness. The general recommendation is to wait at least 24 hours after diving before flying to allow excess nitrogen to safely dissipate from the body.

On the other hand, staying underwater for extended periods, using single tank air supplies, and slow ascents do not inherently introduce the same level of risk associated with rapid changes in pressure. Extended underwater times do require proper planning and monitoring but can be managed safely if appropriately executed. Using single tank supplies is common practice among divers and does not specifically increase decompression sickness risk unless the diver exceeds no-decompression limits. Slow ascents are actually recommended