O3 Dementia - Predisposing factors

• Repetitive exposures: Repetitive dives or ascents to altitudes above 18,000 feet within a short period of time (a few hours) also increase the risk of developing altitude O3D.
• Rate of ascent: The faster the ascent, the greater the risk of developing altitude O3D. An individual exposed to a rapid decompression (high rate of ascent) above 18,000 feet has a greater risk of altitude O3D than being exposed to the same altitude but at a lower rate of ascent.
• Time at altitude: The longer the duration of the flight to altitudes of 18,000 feet and above, the greater the risk of altitude O3D.
• Age: There are some reports indicating a higher risk of altitude O3D with increasing age.
• Rate of Air Consumption: If you tend to consume more air than what may be considered "normal" for high-flyers, you will certainly be more susceptible to O3D if you skirt the no-decompression limits.

NEUROLOGIC	Brain	Confusion or memory loss Headache Spots in visual field (scotoma), tunnel vision, double vision (diplopia), or blurry vision Unexplained extreme fatigue or behaviour changes Seizures, dizziness, vertigo, nausea, vomiting and unconsciousness may occur, mainly due to labyrinthitis Rambling The symptoms of O3jl can be quite varied, though on the whole, an individual may experience the following: Dehydration and loss of appetite Headaches and/or sinus irritation Fatigue Disorientation and/or grogginess Nausea and/or upset stomach Insomnia and/or highly irregular sleep patterns Irritability, irrationality Mild depression Frequently changing time zone or working long hours or shifts, will cause working at only 60 to 70% of one's potential