What do dives at altitudes above 10,000 feet require compared to sea level dives?

Dives at altitudes above 10,000 feet require more decompression due to the reduced atmospheric pressure compared to sea level. When divers operate at high altitudes, the partial pressure of gases, especially nitrogen, is lower, which can lead to an increased risk of decompression sickness. As a result, divers must account for this change in pressure and often have to make adjustments to their dive plans, which typically involve longer or more complex decompression procedures to ensure safe ascent.

At sea level, the body is accustomed to a higher atmospheric pressure, allowing for more straightforward adherence to standard decompression schedules. However, as altitude increases, the dynamics of gas absorption and elimination change significantly, necessitating more thorough work in terms of reining in nitrogen levels in bodily tissues. This is why dives at higher altitudes increase the need for additional decompression interventions.