Abstract
P195
Objectives: Alternobaric vertigo is an often overlooked condition in which transient vertigo suddenly occurs during flying or diving activities, caused by bilateral but asymmetrical changes in middle ear pressure (Lündgren, 1965). As it may cause sudden spatial disorientation during aircraft piloting maneuvers it should always be considered when causes for aircraft accidents are under investigation. Its prevalence is probably underestimated and most certainly underreported during routine flying, with the figures of 10% to 17% prevalence rate mentioned in early literature (Jones, 1957; Lundgren, 1966) not being challenged by recent data.
Methods: Such is the task of the present investigation, in which the authors, in order to better assess its actual prevalence, requested all pilots presently on active duty in the Portuguese Air Force and flying high performance aircrafts, to anonymously fill out a questionnaire on its symptoms after a briefing on the subject.
Results: The voluntary report of a 29% prevalence rate by the population under investigation is somewhat higher than found in earlier studies.
Conclusion: These results serve to remind us of the importance of education and information on ways to prevent this condition as part of Air Force and commercial flyers routine training.