What is a common hazard divers face at greater depths?

Decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," is a common hazard divers face when ascending from greater depths. This condition occurs when a diver ascends too quickly after spending time at depths where the pressure is significantly higher. As the pressure decreases during ascent, the nitrogen that has dissolved into the body’s tissues while under pressure may form bubbles if the ascent is too rapid. These bubbles can cause a range of symptoms from joint pain to serious neurological issues or even death.

Diving regulations and practices, such as following ascent rates and performing safety stops, are specifically designed to mitigate this risk. Understanding and adhering to these practices are crucial for ensuring divers can safely explore underwater environments without experiencing these harmful effects.

In contrast, while reduced oxygen availability and increased risk of hypothermia can both be concerns for divers, they are not as directly associated with the effects of depth and ascent rates as decompression sickness. Stronger underwater currents may affect diving conditions but are not a physiological hazard tied to depth in the same way.