Which condition can be aggravated by diving at greater depths?

Diving at greater depths increases the partial pressure of gases, particularly nitrogen, in the body's tissues. As a diver goes deeper, the effects of nitrogen narcosis become more pronounced due to the higher concentration of nitrogen. This condition, often described as experiencing a state similar to alcohol intoxication, can impair judgment, coordination, and cognitive function. The mechanism behind nitrogen narcosis involves the dissolution of nitrogen into lipids and nerve membranes, which alters neurotransmitter activity in the brain.

While decompression sickness can also be a risk at greater depths, it is mainly related to the ascent and off-gassing of nitrogen rather than being aggravated by depth alone. Hypertension and hypothermia, while significant concerns in diving, are not inherently exacerbated by greater depths in the same immediate sense that nitrogen narcosis is. Therefore, the impact of depth on nitrogen narcosis highlights it as the correct condition that can be aggravated under these circumstances.