What are the signs of hypoxia when flying?

The order of symptoms varies among individuals: increased breathing rate, headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, tingling or warm sensations, sweating, poor coordination, impaired judgment, tunnel vision, and euphoria.



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Treatment of Hypoxia
  • Administer supplemental oxygen (don your oxygen mask)
  • Check your equipment for proper operation.
  • Ensure the regulator is turned on.
  • Check the flow indicator (this will tell you that something is coming to the mask)
  • Ensure that all oxygen equipment connections are secure.


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There are four main stages of hypoxia:
  • The Indifferent Stage occurs between sea level and 10,000 feet of altitude. ...
  • The Compensatory Stage occurs between 10,000-15,000 feet of altitude. ...
  • The Disturbance Stage occurs between 15,000-20,000 feet. ...
  • The Critical Stage happens between 20,000 feet and beyond. ...
  • ATM = Atmospheres.


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In aeronautics, hypoxia typically results from a decompression or lack of pressurisation of the aircraft cabin. Hypoxia occurs within a few minutes if the cabin pressure altitude rises to between 5,000-6,000 m (about 16,000 - 20,000 ft).

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The air on a plane contains less oxygen than the air we normally breathe in. This leads to lower levels of oxygen in the blood. If you do not have a lung condition, the drop in oxygen is not enough that you would feel the difference.

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