Diver Dies and Another Hospitalized After Suspected Decompression Sickness in Vietnam

A recreational dive off the coast of Quang Tri Province in central Vietnam has ended in tragedy, with one diver dead and another in critical condition following suspected decompression sickness. The incident was reported by the Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Dong Hoi Hospital, according to a report from Tuoi Tres News.

The two divers, aged 45 and 54, were both residents of Nam Trach Commune. They returned from a dive on Monday to depths estimated at 15 to 20 meters. Around two hours after surfacing, both men began experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, and skin discoloration.

They were rushed to hospital, where the younger man arrived conscious but showing severe symptoms including widespread cyanosis, breathing difficulties, and abdominal pain. Despite medical intervention, he went into cardiac arrest and could not be revived.

The second diver was admitted with milder symptoms and later transferred to the Vietnam National Institute of Maritime Medicine in Hai Phong City for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Medical staff confirmed both cases were the result of decompression sickness, a condition that occurs when divers ascend too quickly. Nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream and body tissues, which can block circulation and cause tissue damage.