Are there long-term side effects from decompression sickness (DCS)?

Any long-term effects of decompression sickness are generally brought on by not having the problem treated quickly enough.  If the decompression sickness is left too long before treatment is given or if it is left untreated, then divers can experience difficulty in controlling urinary and bowel function, muscle weakness, permanent neurological damage, and chronic joint pain.  The neurological damage can include damage to the brain and spinal cord due to gases bubbling through the brain, and this can become permanent.