Problems of Pressure Change Flashcards
What is the main problem with pressure change?
Trapped gases.
What is Boyles law?
P1 x V1 = P2 x V2
What is Pascal’s principle?
- Pressure applied to an incompressible fluid will be transmitted equally throughout the liquid
- Pressures are transmitted equally through body fluid to all body cavities.
What are the body cavities affected by trapped gas?
1) Sinuses
2) Lungs
3) Ears
4) Teeth
5) Gut
6) Anywhere after surgery or trauma
Are lungs a big problem in aviation?
Not generally.
Does the stomach vent easily?
Yes
Does the colon usually vent naturally?
Yes
At what stage of flight do small bowel problems?
Ascent
What are some ways to equalize ear pressure?
1) Swallowing
2) Chewing
3) Yawning
4) Valsalva manoeuvre
At what phase of flight to ear problems usually occur?
On descent
What what stage of flight does pain in the sinuses occur?
Pain in face usually on descent
At what phase of flight does pain in the teeth occur?
Pain on ascent
What is Decompression Illness (DCI)?
A decrease in the ambient partial pressure of nitrogen causes the evolution of nitrogen bubbles in the blood and tissues
What is Henry’s Law?
Amount of gas that dissolved in a given type and volume of liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of that gas in equilibrium with that liquid.
What are symptoms of the Bends?
- Joint pains, minor niggle to severe and distressing.
- Better with pressure, worse with use.
