08/29/2022
The thermal stress of a diver can have a substantial influence on the risk of DCS.
With inert gas uptake (typically nitrogen) being generally highest early in the dive, divers who wear active heating garments should consider a low or off setting early in the dive and a gradual increase in warming during ascent.
During the ascent and stop phase of your dive, a relatively warm state will increase inert gas elimination, thus reducing overall decompression stress. On the other hand, a cool or cold state during this phase will reduce inert gas elimination, effectively prolonging and possibly increasing decompression stress.
Temperature regulation tips:
🟢 Begin your dive cold and gradually warm towards the end
🟡 Begin your dive warm and remain warm towards the end
🔴 Avoid beginning your dive warm and ending cold
❗*Postdive warming can increase DCS risk. Taking a hot shower or getting into a hot tub after a dive can promote bubble formation. If your inert gas uptake is significant, warming your extremities after a dive can cause problematic responses. Instead of jumping in immediately, delay or avoid a hot shower/hot tub as much as possible.
