What Researchers Did
This study describes the case of a 38-year-old female diver who experienced stroke symptoms after a rapid ascent from underwater.
What They Found
A 38-year-old female diver developed headache, nausea, vomiting, and left-sided weakness after a rapid ascent from 120 feet of seawater. She was initially treated for decompression illness in a hyperbaric chamber but was later diagnosed with a right internal carotid artery dissection. This case highlights that internal carotid artery dissection is another potential cause for central nervous system infarction in divers, beyond arterial gas embolism or decompression sickness.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian divers experiencing stroke-like symptoms after diving, even if initially treated for decompression illness, should be thoroughly evaluated for other potential causes like internal carotid artery dissection. This case emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive diagnosis to ensure appropriate and effective treatment for neurological issues in divers.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers decompression sickness, which is a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
As a single case report, the findings may not apply to all divers or situations.