What can severe cases of decompression sickness lead to?

Severe cases of decompression sickness can lead to neurological damage or paralysis due to the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the body's tissues and bloodstream. During rapid decompression, these bubbles can obstruct blood flow, particularly to the brain and spinal cord, resulting in serious neurological effects. This impairment can manifest as symptoms ranging from confusion and difficulty with coordination to complete paralysis, depending on the areas of the nervous system that are affected. The severity of the condition and the promptness of treatment are critical factors influencing the extent of damage.

The other potential answers do not accurately represent the serious consequences associated with severe decompression sickness. Increased muscle strength and a sense of euphoria are not characteristics of this condition; instead, they may reflect other physiological or psychological responses. Increased respiratory rate can occur in various situations, but it is not a direct outcome of severe decompression sickness as neurological impairment is.