What does ADS mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Altitude decompression sickness occurs when an individual rapidly ascends from a lower altitude to a higher one and the body cannot adapt quickly enough to the change in air pressure. This can lead to nitrogen bubbles forming in the blood and tissues of the body, which can lead to tissue damage as well as other symptoms.

Altitude decompression sickness typically occurs after an individual ascends quickly from a lower altitude often found in airplanes, helicopters or mountain climbing expeditions and doesn't give the body enough time to adjust properly at higher altitudes. This change in environment can cause nitrogen bubbles to form within the bodily tissue resulting in physical symptoms related to this ailment.

Symptoms of altitude decompression sickness can include joint pain and swelling, weakness, dizziness, confusion, nausea and vomiting. In extreme cases individuals may experience paralysis or unconsciousness if medical treatment is not received immediately.

The two main risk factors for developing this condition is length of exposure to high altitudes and how fast an individual ascends and descends between those altitudes. Other factors that may increase your chances include smoking cigarettes or using oxygen deprivation masks while ascending or descending quickly between altitudes too soon after each other.

Treatment typically focuses on reducing nitrogen bubble formation by returning back to normal atmospheric pressures quickly. Supplemental oxygen may be provided through a mask or tank depending on severity of symptoms as well as medications such decongestants or anti-anxiety medications prescribed by doctors.