Hypoxia
Hypoxia is a condition resulting from a lack of sufficient oxygen in the body tissues. There are five types of hypoxia, i.e., Hypoxic hypoxia, Anemic hypoxia, stagnant hypoxia, Histiotic hypoxia, and metabolic hypoxia.
What type of hypoxia do you believe to be the most dangerous to the aviator? Provide a detailed explanation on why you believe it to be the most dangerous type.
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The most dangerous type of hypoxia is the Anemic hypoxia. Anemic hypoxia can be as a result of heart failure, reduced circulating blood volume, vasodilatation or continuous positive pressure ventilation. In this condition, blood flow is abnormally low which causes a low supply of oxygen to the tissues. As such, the body tissues such as the brain could stop functioning during instances such as shock and result to sudden death.
What is the treatment for an ear block on the ascent? Is this treatment different than if you had an ear block on descent? If so, why?
An ear block is normally preceded by fullness in the ear, slow loss of hearing capabilities and subsequently pain. It is normally caused by failure to balance the pressure in the middle ear. During ascent, pressure decreases, expanding the air in the middle ear which pushes the Eustachian tube open ("Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) - Page 536", 2018). The treatment for ear block during ascent is engaging in activities such as swallowing, yawning and tensing the throat muscles ("Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) - Page 536", 2018). One can also combine closing the mouth and attempting to blow through the nostrils while pinching the nose closed ("Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) - Page 536", 2018). This treatment is similar to the treatment of an ear block during descent because it involves helping to open the Eustachian tube to balance the pressure.
Why should you not fly with an upper respiratory infection? What body parts are affected by the infection? What in-flight treatment could you use if you did fly sick?
In most cases, ear blocks are caused by flying with an upper respiratory infection. Therefore, one should not fly with an upper respiratory infection. Upper respiratory infection affects the throat, the larynx, the nasopharyngitis, the trachea or bronchitis. In case you fall sick while flying, you should chew minty chewing gum and place focus on your breathing. Chewing stimulates digestion and helps in relaxation. Mint flavor creates a soothing effect on the stomach reducing the feeling of nausea.
Compare and contrast the symptoms of hypoxia and hyperventilation.
Similarities
• In both conditions, the patient experiences rapid breathing.
• Both conditions cause confusion or decreased levels of judgment.
• There is an irregular heart rate in both situations.
• Patients with either of these conditions may also experience reduced visual acuity.
Differences
The difference between the symptoms of hypoxia and ventilation is very narrow. Hyperventilation is slow and gradual and is accompanied by the presence of pale, cold, clammy skin and also the development of muscle spasm. In hypoxia, the onset depends on the altitude and is accompanied by flaccid muscles.
References
Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) - Page 536. (2018). Retrieved from http://www.faraim.org/aim/aim-4-03-14-536.html
