IWR — In-Water Recompression

In-water recompression is the practice of staying at depth to treat decompression sickness symptoms. Divers use this method because they cannot reach a hyperbaric chamber in time. This usually happens during remote liveaboards in places like Tubbataha or Komodo.

Most cases involve a diver ascending too fast and feeling pain at 5 m or 10 m. While it might reduce symptoms, the risk of oxygen toxicity is very high. I saw a diver in Cebu attempt this in 2018 before realizing the danger.

Never try this alone. Always prioritize getting to a professional medical facility since the neurological risks are extreme. Most dive operators prefer an immediate ascent and surface oxygen over staying down.