What is a common effect of ascending too quickly?

Ascending too quickly during a dive can lead to decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends." This condition occurs when a diver ascends too rapidly from depths where the pressure is significantly higher than at the surface. Under these high-pressure conditions, gases (mainly nitrogen) dissolve into the body’s tissues. If a diver ascends too quickly, the rapid reduction in pressure can cause these gases to come out of solution and form bubbles in the bloodstream and tissues. These bubbles can interfere with normal blood flow, potentially leading to serious health issues, including pain, paralysis, and in severe cases, death.

Understanding the significance of controlled ascents and following safety protocols, such as performing safety stops, is crucial for preventing decompression sickness. By allowing time for the dissolved gases to safely exit the body, divers greatly reduce their risk of this dangerous condition.

Other options, though associated with diving, do not specifically relate to the rapid ascent. Hyperventilation may occur due to anxiety or panic while diving but is not an effect of ascent speed. Hypothermia typically results from prolonged exposure to cold water rather than the ascent process. Nausea can be caused by various factors, including sea sickness or anxiety, but is not directly linked to the