Physiological Considerations

Question 1

Fatigue

Answer 1

One of the most dangerous hazards to Pilots
Causes: Physical or Mental
Lack of attention, concentration, coordination, decreased ability to communicate.

Question 2

Two types of Fatigue

Answer 2

Short term: caused by extended periods of concentration or stress. REST, EXERCISE, NUTRITION

Chronic: Not enough recovery between episodes of short term fatigue. Find underlying problem

Question 3

Hypoxia
F
I
S
H
R
I
B

Answer 3

Hypoxia is a state of oxygen deficiency in the body sufficient to impair functions of the brain and other organs.
Fatigue
Indifference
Sense of Wellbeing
Headache
Reduced Vision (day above 12K, night as low as 5K)
Improper decision making
Blue Lips

Question 4

Hypoxia
H
H
A
S
H

Answer 4

Hypoxic Hypoxia - insufficient O2 in blood (altitude)
Hypemic Hypoxia - Blood doesn’t transport O2 (CO)
Anemic Hypoxia - not enough blood (blood loss/defect)
Stagnant Hypoxia - blood is unable to circulate. High G or Low G maneuvers, heart failure
Histotoxic Hypoxia - Cells/tissue is unable to effectively use O2 due to alcohol/narcotics/poison

Question 5

Hypoxia and Altitude

Answer 5

Four Levels of Hypoxia:
– Indifferent: SFC - 5,000ft.
– Compensatory: 5,000 – 10,000ft. Body compensates by breathing heavily.
– Disturbance: 10,000 – 15,000ft. Symptoms appear.
– Critical: 15,000 – 20,000ft. Unconsciousness and death.