Private Pilot Private Exam

Which of the following is not a type of hypoxia?

1. Histotoxic

2. Hypoxic

3. Hypertoxic

4. Stagnant

The correct answer is: Hypertoxic

Hypoxia refers to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, and several types of hypoxia are recognized based on their causes. The first type, hypoxic hypoxia, occurs when there is insufficient oxygen available in the atmosphere, which can happen at high altitudes. Histotoxic hypoxia arises when tissues cannot utilize the oxygen that is delivered to them, often due to toxins like carbon monoxide. Stagnant hypoxia occurs when there is a lack of blood flow, which can occur during maneuvers that lead to loss of consciousness or in certain medical conditions. Hypertoxic, however, is not a recognized type of hypoxia. The term may suggest a situation involving an excess of oxygen, which can lead to oxygen toxicity but does not relate to the deficiency in oxygen that hypoxia describes. Understanding these different types is crucial for pilots to recognize and respond effectively to various oxygen-related challenges while flying.