Aeromedical Factors Flashcards
Define: Hypoxia
A state of oxygen deficiency in the body
At what altitudes does hypoxia normally occur?
5,000+ ft at night
12,000+ ft during the day
What factors make pilots more susceptible to hypoxia?
Carbon Monoxide Lowered Hemoglobin Certain medications Alcohol Fever or anxiety
How can you prevent hypoxia?
Maintain a safe cabin pressure altitude
Use supplemental oxygen above 10,000 ft
Define: Hyperventalition
An abnormal increase in volume of air breathed into and out of the lungs.
Symptoms of hyperventilation?
Light headed Suffocation Drowsiness Tingling Coolness Eventually unconsciousness
How can you reverse hyperventilation?
Breathe into a bag
Talk out loud
Slow the breathing rate
Define: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
When carbon monoxide is inhaled it reduces the ability of the blood to carry oxygen.
How does carbon monoxide poisoning occur?
Heat passing through the shroud around a cracked exhaust pipe.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Headache
Drowsiness
Dizziness
(while using cabin heat)
What actions should you take if someone has suspected carbon monoxide poisoning?
Shut off cabin heat
Open all air vents
Land
What causes motion sickness?
It is caused by the brain receiving conflicting messages about the state of the body.
What action should you take if a passenger gets motion sickness?
Open the air vents
Loosen clothing
Use supplemental oxygen
Keep eyes fixed on a point outside
Define: Ear Block
The difference in pressure between the middle ear and the aircraft cabin making equalization difficult.
What action can be taken to prevent ear block?
Swallowing
Yawning
Valsalva Maneuver (pinch nose and breathe)
