Divelocked Itch [updated] -

| Symptom | Action | |---------|--------| | Itch + joint pain (any) | Call DAN hotline | | Itch + skin mottling | ER + hyperbaric consult | | Itch + numbness or weakness | Neurologic DCS until proven otherwise | | Itch lasting >6 hours | Unlikely DLI; rule out other causes | | Itch returning after diving same day | Possible DCS rebound |

1. What Is Divelocked Itch? Divelocked itch (DLI) is a colloquial term for an intense, deep-seated, generalized pruritus (itch) that begins during the latter stages of a long decompression obligation or immediately upon surfacing, and which cannot be relieved by scratching . The “divelocked” part refers to the feeling of being trapped underwater or in deco, unable to escape the sensation, and the fact that the itch persists even when you try to scratch it — as if the itch is “locked” beneath the skin. divelocked itch

During deco: Stay calm. Don’t scratch. Finish stops. Cool a glove if needed. | Symptom | Action | |---------|--------| | Itch

Not a medical emergency alone, but respect the warning. Divelocked itch is a real, benign-but-miserable phenomenon of technical diving, likely from microscopic bubbles irritating deep itch nerves. It is not DCS, but it is a sign of significant decompression stress. Listen to your body, treat symptomatically, and adjust your diving habits — but never skip deco to escape the itch. That’s why it’s called divelocked . The “divelocked” part refers to the feeling of

Resolves by 4 hours → Safe. Log it. Modify next dive (more hydration, slower ascent).