What are symptoms of nitrogen narcosis?

Nitrogen narcosis, often referred to as "rapture of the deep," occurs when divers are exposed to high concentrations of nitrogen under pressure, typically at depths greater than 30 meters (around 100 feet). The symptoms associated with nitrogen narcosis primarily involve changes in mental status and physical coordination. Impaired judgment occurs as the diver may exhibit poor decision-making and riskier behavior than usual. Euphoria is another common effect, where divers can feel an exaggerated sense of wellbeing or excitement, which can lead to complacency regarding safety. Decreased motor skills manifests as difficulties in performing tasks that require fine motor control or coordination, affecting a diver's ability to navigate and respond to their environment effectively.

These symptoms stem from nitrogen's anesthetic properties under pressure, which can influence the central nervous system. It is important for divers to recognize these indicators to prevent accidents, as awareness of the effects of nitrogen narcosis can help in making safe decisions regarding depth and dive duration.