What is a common treatment for decompression sickness?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a common and effective treatment for decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends." This condition occurs when diver ascends too quickly, causing nitrogen bubbles to form in the bloodstream and tissues due to a rapid decrease in ambient pressure. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves placing the patient in a hyperbaric chamber where they breathe pure oxygen at pressures greater than atmospheric pressure. This treatment has several beneficial effects: it reduces the size of the nitrogen bubbles, helps to re-dissolve them back into the bloodstream, and enhances oxygen delivery to tissues that may be deprived of oxygen due to the presence of gas bubbles.

Additionally, the high pressure can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of damaged tissues, thereby facilitating recovery from the symptoms associated with decompression sickness. The other treatment options listed may not specifically target the underlying issues of decompression sickness, emphasizing the importance of hyperbaric therapy in managing this serious condition.