Why should divers avoid rapid ascents?

Avoiding rapid ascents is crucial primarily because it significantly increases the risk of decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." During a dive, divers are exposed to higher pressures, which allows their bodies to absorb more nitrogen from the surrounding water. If a diver ascends too rapidly, the reduction in pressure can cause the dissolved nitrogen to form bubbles within the body. These bubbles can travel to crucial areas such as joints, organs, or even the brain, leading to various symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions.

Proper ascent rates, typically recommended to be no faster than 30 feet per minute and including safety stops, allow nitrogen to be safely released from the body as pressure decreases. This controlled ascent enables the body to off-gas nitrogen without forming harmful bubbles, significantly reducing the chances of experiencing decompression sickness. Therefore, maintaining a cautious ascent rate is vital for ensuring a diver's safety and well-being during and after the dive.