High-pressure nervous syndrome
High-pressure nervous syndrome (HPNS) is a neurological and physiological diving disorder that results when a diver descends below about 500 feet (150 m) using a breathing gas containing helium. The effects depend on the rate of descent and the depth.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
HPNS can present with a variety of symptoms including tremors, myoclonic jerking, somnolence, EEG changes, visual disturbance, nausea, dizziness, and decreased mental performance. These symptoms may increase in severity with increasing depth.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of HPNS is not fully understood. It is believed to be a response of the central nervous system to the hyperbaric conditions experienced at great depths. The use of breathing gases containing helium, which is often used in deep-sea diving due to its low solubility in tissues, appears to contribute to the development of HPNS.
Prevention and Treatment[edit | edit source]
Prevention of HPNS primarily involves limiting the rate of descent, particularly below 500 feet, and using a breathing gas mixture that minimizes the amount of helium. Once symptoms have developed, ascent to shallower depths can alleviate them. There is currently no specific treatment for HPNS.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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