Gas Toxicities

The effects of pressure on the human body experienced during a dive are more varied than most people imagine. Throughout the Dive Medicine for Divers series, we've discussed pressure as it relates to barotrauma in the ears, sinuses and lungs and pressure when it comes to decompression illnesses. Pressure and the gases we breathe while diving also interact in a less obvious but equally important manner. At depth, gases can become toxic or narcotic, affecting your safety and health.