What is the primary criterion for diagnosing AGE?

The primary criterion for diagnosing Arterial Gas Embolism (AGE) is the presence of any neurological symptoms within 10 minutes of surfacing. This time frame is crucial because neurological symptoms can arise quickly after an ascent due to the formation of gas bubbles in the bloodstream, which can then affect blood flow to the brain and other organs.

Neurological symptoms can include confusion, weakness, numbness, or other signs indicative of neurological impairment. Recognizing these symptoms promptly is essential for immediate medical intervention, which can significantly impact outcomes for the affected diver. Therefore, the emphasis on symptoms presenting within such a critical time period is what underpins the diagnosis of AGE.

The other options do not serve as reliable primary criteria for AGE diagnosis. For example, loss of consciousness can occur due to various reasons not strictly associated with AGE, and severe headaches or ear pain can be indicative of other dive-related conditions such as decompression sickness or barotrauma, rather than a definitive AGE diagnosis.