What significant impact does decompression sickness have on individuals at high altitudes?

Decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," is a condition that occurs when a person experiences a rapid decrease in pressure, leading to the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the bloodstream and tissues. This phenomenon primarily affects individuals who have been at high altitudes where atmospheric pressure is significantly lower than at sea level.

When high altitude conditions are encountered, especially during rapid ascent or descent in aviation or diving after exposure to high-pressure environments, these nitrogen bubbles can form due to reduced solubility of nitrogen in blood and tissues. The presence of these bubbles can lead to severe pain, typically in joints and muscles, and can cause serious injury by obstructing blood flow or damaging tissues. The symptoms may include extreme pain, neurological effects, and in severe cases, potentially life-threatening conditions.

The correct answer highlights the significant impact of decompression sickness, illustrating the serious health risks associated with nitrogen bubbles in the body, which can detrimentally affect an individual’s wellbeing at high altitudes.