List one common symptom of decompression sickness.

Joint pain is a common symptom of decompression sickness (DCS), which occurs when a diver rises to the surface too quickly, leading to the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the bloodstream and tissues. The nitrogen that was absorbed at higher pressures can expand and form bubbles as pressure decreases, causing various symptoms in different parts of the body.

Joint pain, often described as "the bends," typically occurs in larger joints and can be quite severe. It is a direct result of the nitrogen bubbles affecting the synovial fluid around the joints, causing inflammation and pain. Recognizing joint pain as a symptom is critical for divers, as it necessitates immediate attention and often medical intervention, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, to resolve the condition and prevent further complications.

Other symptoms listed, while they may occur with decompression sickness, are less commonly associated with this condition compared to joint pain. Fatigue, nausea, and headache can arise from various causes and may not be specific indicators of DCS in the same way that joint pain is, making understanding joint pain essential for effective identification and response to decompression sickness.