How does altitude impact nitrogen absorption while diving?

Altitude has a significant impact on nitrogen absorption during diving due to the changes in pressure that occur as one ascends. At higher altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is lower than at sea level, which affects how nitrogen is absorbed by a diver’s body.

When divers descend below the surface, the increased pressure causes more nitrogen to dissolve into their tissues. However, as altitude increases, the lower pressure results in decreased nitrogen absorption rates. This occurs because there is less pressure pushing nitrogen into the body, leading to a slower accumulation of nitrogen compared to diving at sea level.

Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for divers, especially when planning dives and considering the risks of decompression sickness when ascending. Managing nitrogen absorption is vital to ensure safety, as divers must account for the pressures affecting their bodies both below and above sea level.