====== Hypoxia, Hyperventilation, and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning ======

**Hypoxia** means “reduced oxygen” or “not enough oxygen.” 

Hypoxia can be caused by several factors, including an insufficient supply of oxygen, inadequate transportation of
oxygen, or the inability of the body tissues to use oxygen.

==== Symptoms of Hypoxia ====

High-altitude flying can place a pilot in danger of becoming hypoxic. Oxygen starvation causes the brain and other vital organs to become impaired. The first symptoms of hypoxia can include euphoria and a carefree feeling. With increased oxygen starvation, the extremities become less responsive and flying becomes less coordinated. The symptoms of hypoxia vary with the individual, but common symptoms include:

  * Cyanosis (blue fingernails and lips)
  * Headache
  * Decreased response to stimuli and increased reaction time
  * Impaired judgment
  * Euphoria
  * Visual impairment
  * Drowsiness
  * Lightheaded or dizzy sensation
  * Tingling in fingers and toes
  * Numbness

As hypoxia worsens, the field of vision begins to narrow and
instrument interpretation can become difficult. Even with all
these symptoms, the effects of hypoxia can cause a pilot to
have a false sense of security and be deceived into believing
everything is normal. 

<note important>Headaches are common to multiple conditions including hyperventiliation, CO poisoning, and hypoxia.</note>