What Happens to the Brain in High Altitudes?

Working in high altitudes is common for many people, especially those in the aerospace industry. But what does this do to the brain?

A study looked at 19 people who often work in altitude chambers and compared them to 28 healthy individuals.

Brain Scans and Findings

Both groups had some white matter hyperintensities (WMH), which are bright spots on MRI scans. These spots are usually linked to aging and other factors.

The study found that:

• The number and size of these spots increased with age.
• They also increased with more time spent in altitude chambers.

Brain Volume Differences

Interestingly, the people who worked in altitude chambers had smaller volumes in certain parts of their brains, such as:

• The lateral orbitofrontal cortex
• The pars opercularis

But don't worry, this doesn't necessarily mean their brain function was affected.

Neurophysiological and Psychometric Tests

The study also looked at neurophysiological and psychometric tests, and there were no differences between the two groups.

Conclusion

The study suggests that working in nonhypoxic hypobaric conditions, like those in altitude chambers, doesn't cause brain damage.

However, it's important to note that this is just one study, and more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects.