What altitude considerations should a diver keep in mind?

It is essential for divers to understand that higher altitudes can increase the risk of decompression sickness due to the changes in ambient pressure. As altitude increases, the pressure surrounding a diver diminishes compared to sea level. This reduction in pressure affects the behavior of nitrogen absorbed in the body during a dive. When a diver ascends from depth, the nitrogen begins to come out of solution.

At higher altitudes, the lower pressure means that divers must consider the risk of bubbles forming more readily in bodily tissues, as there is not as much external pressure to keep the nitrogen dissolved. This can lead to decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends," which can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Therefore, proper ascent rates, safety stops, and dive planning are crucial at elevated altitudes to mitigate this risk.

Understanding these factors is vital for ensuring a safe diving experience, especially in environments or locations where altitude impacts diving activities.