When nitrogen is offgassed faster than your body can eliminate it from your system, it expands and forms bubbles in your tissues and fluids. These bubbles cause a condition called decompression sickness (DCS), which is also known as "the bends."

Nitrogen bubbles that form in your bloodstream can clot or impede the circulation of blood through your circulatory system. This can prevent oxygenated blood from reaching its destination and cause serious complications. Bubbles that form in your body's tissues can interfere with movement and trigger defensive reactions.