Differential neuropsychological effects of diving to 350 meters

Six divers were compressed on heliox to 350 m. Repeated neuropsychological and neurological tests were conducted during the dive. Averaged increased tremor during the compression was found. Two divers had major EEG changes, while two divers had a completely normal EEG. Memory was most impaired among the cognitive variables. At 350 m there was some normalization in the EEG, and the tremor levels returned to normal. Memory impairment, however, was sustained. Three months later nine divers performed an open sea dive to 300 m. Whereas minor fatigue effects were found for the experimental dive, examinations after the open sea dive indicated more specific cerebral after effects. An increased tremor, reduced hand grip strength and foot tapping speed, lowered autonomic reactivity, and memory problems were found. Some divers had unequivocal asymmetrical plantar responses and unilateral weak abdominal reflexes, accompanied by EEG changes with corresponding laterality. In three of the divers these signs were not present 1 month later.