## How Long Can You Stay at 100 ft Scuba Diving?
Scuba diving is an exciting and rewarding activity that allows you to explore the underwater world. However, it is important to be aware of the risks involved, including the risk of decompression sickness (DCS). DCS occurs when nitrogen gas bubbles form in your tissues as you ascend from a dive. The deeper you dive and the longer you stay at depth, the greater the risk of DCS.
## Dive Time Limits
The dive time limits for scuba diving are determined by the depth of the dive and the type of breathing gas used. The following are the recommended dive time limits for diving with compressed air:
| Depth (feet) | Dive Time Limit (minutes) |
|—|—|
| 60 | 60 |
| 70 | 45 |
| 80 | 35 |
| 90 | 25 |
| 100 | 20 |
| 110 | 15 |
| 120 | 10 |
## Safety Stops
In addition to following the dive time limits, it is also important to make safety stops during your ascent. Safety stops are pauses at specific depths during your ascent to allow your body to off-gas nitrogen. The following are the recommended safety stops for scuba diving with compressed air:
| Depth (feet) | Duration (minutes) |
|—|—|
| 10 | 3 |
| 20 | 5 |
| 30 | 10 |
## Factors Affecting Dive Time
The following factors can affect your dive time:
* **Fitness level:** Fitter divers can stay at depth for longer periods of time.
* **Experience level:** Experienced divers are better able to manage their nitrogen levels and can stay at depth for longer periods of time.
* **Water temperature:** Cold water temperatures can increase the risk of DCS.
* **Currents:** Diving in strong currents can increase the amount of nitrogen you absorb.
* **Breathing rate:** Divers who breathe more quickly absorb more nitrogen.
## Signs of DCS
The following are the signs and symptoms of DCS:
* **Joint pain:** This is the most common symptom of DCS.
* **Skin rash:** This rash may be itchy or painful.
* **Neurological symptoms:** These symptoms can include numbness, tingling, weakness, or paralysis.
* **Respiratory symptoms:** These symptoms can include shortness of breath, coughing, or chest pain.
* **Gastrointestinal symptoms:** These symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
## Treatment for DCS
If you experience any of the signs or symptoms of DCS, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for DCS typically involves recompression therapy, which involves breathing pure oxygen under pressure.
## Conclusion
Scuba diving is a safe and enjoyable activity, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved. By following the dive time limits, making safety stops, and being aware of the signs and symptoms of DCS, you can help to reduce your risk of this condition.