Hypoxia

Hypoxia is a condition resulting from an inadequate supply of oxygen to the body's tissues, typically caused by decreasing atmospheric pressure at altitude. Symptoms include a lack of self-criticism, overconfidence, a false sense of security, cyanosis (blue colouration of the lips and fingernails), and tingling sensations.

Key Points

• •Hypoxia causes dangerous behavioural changes, including a false sense of security and overconfidence, which impair a pilot's judgement.
• •Hypoxia adversely affects night vision even at relatively low altitudes.
• •Symptoms of hypoxia develop much faster at higher altitudes.

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