Symptoms of nitrogen narcosis are similar to which condition?

• A. Alcohol intoxication
• B. Flu
• C. Hypoglycemia
• D. Anxiety

Answer: (A)

Nitrogen narcosis produces a narcotic effect as you dive deeper because the increased partial pressure of nitrogen causes it to affect the nervous system, slowing brain function much like alcohol does. The result is CNS depression that leads to symptoms such as euphoria, slowed thinking, impaired judgment, reduced coordination, and dizziness. These signs are classic for alcohol intoxication, so nitrogen narcosis often feels like being drunk underwater.

Other conditions don’t produce that same narcotic, depressant effect on the brain in divers. Flu brings fever and malaise; hypoglycemia causes shakiness and sweating with confusion; anxiety triggers shortness of breath and panic. The specific, alcohol-like impairment seen with nitrogen narcosis is why that comparison is made. If narcosis is suspected, ascending to shallower depth typically relieves the symptoms.