Aeromedical Factors

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Description: Carbon monoxide (a colorless, odorless gas) replaces oxygen in the blood

Cause: Result of exhaust fumes entering the cabin
Effects: Headache, drowsiness, dizziness
Correction: Open air vents and close heater

Hypoxia

Description: Insufficient oxygen in the bloodstream
Cause: Lower pressure at altitude causes oxygen deficiency in body Effects: Headache, drowsiness, dizziness, euphoria or belligerence. Impairs judgment, memory, and mental ability. May affect night vision at 5,000’ MSL. Usually causes problems above 12,000 – 15,000 MSL. Above 15,000 MSL causes tunnel vision, cyanosis and eventually unconsciousness
Correction: Use supplemental oxygen or descend to a lower altitude

Hyperventilation

Description: Breathing in an increased volume of air and disrupting the proper balance of 02 and CO2
Cause: Usually brought on by stress, fear or anxiety
Effects: Lightheadedness, suffocation, drowsiness, tingling of the extremities. Causes uncordination, disorientation, muscle spasms and eventually unconsciousness
Correction: Controlled breathing (i.e. Breath slowly in a paper bag or hands). Talk – slows breathing

Spatial Disorientation (Vertigo)

Description: Inner ear sends incorrect spatial information to the brain (loss of balance)
Cause: Lack of visual cues, illusion, and distractions
Effect: Dizziness, misleading sensations, disorientation
Correction: Watch and rely on instruments, use outside visual cues if VMC

Drugs

Cause: Medication for illness, or illegal use
Effect: Impaired physical and mental abilities
Correction: DO NOT FLY unless first consulting an Aviation Medical Examiner