Hyperventilation-Induced Hypocapnia in an Aviator

Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2022 May 1;93(5):470-471. doi: 10.3357/AMHP.5975.2022.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Physiological episodes are a top safety concern for aviators across the United States military. While many cases and a variety of causes for physiological episodes have been described, few cases, if any, have been reported of hyperventilation-induced hypocapnia and transient loss of consciousness.CASE REPORT: Here we describe a case of an aviator who experienced tingling extremities, confusion, and loss of consciousness during a flight. The aviator incorrectly believed he was experiencing hypoxia and continued to take multiple steps to troubleshoot the wrong underlying problem for his symptoms. Evaluation after landing suggested this was instead a stress-induced hyperventilation that resulted in symptomatic hypocapnia.DISCUSSION: We report this case to add to the body of literature in understanding this phenomenon as well as to provide aviators, physiologists, and flight surgeons with practical suggestions for recognizing hyperventilation-induced hypocapnia and awareness of how to remedy this situation when they recognize it.Kramer KEP, Anderson EE. Hyperventilation-induced hypocapnia in an aviator. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2022; 93(5):470-471.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Hyperventilation / complications
  • Hypocapnia / complications
  • Male
  • Military Personnel*
  • Pilots*
  • Unconsciousness
  • United States