Effects of Mild Hypobaric Hypoxia on Sleep and Post-sleep Performance

Investigation to Determine the Effects of Mild Hypobaric Hypoxia on Sleep and Post-Sleep Neurobehavioral Performance

Hypobaric hypoxia (decreased oxygen supply to body tissues due to low atmospheric pressure) caused by exposure to high altitude disrupts sleep. Sleep deprivation is associated with degraded post-sleep performance of neurobehavioral tasks. The lowest altitude at which sleep and/or post-sleep performance are affected is not known. The study hypothesis is that sleep and/or post-sleep performance of neurobehavioral tasks will occur due to hypobaric hypoxia at altitudes of 8,000 or less.

Inclusion Criteria:

• healthy
• age 30 to 60 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• sleep disorders or abnormal sleep patterns
• mood or psychiatric disorders including claustrophobia
• altitude exposure above 5,000 ft in the previous 2 months
• born or raised at terrestrial altitude 5,000 ft or greater
• conditions that would disqualify for FAA Medical Certificate
• acute medical conditions