Mild hypoxia is associated with quantitative EEG changes, but not with dissociative symptoms

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hypoxia at altitude may lead to mental changes resembling dissociative symptoms. This study examined whether hypoxia precipitates dissociative states in normal subjects and whether quantitative electroencephalographic (EEG) changes occur. METHODS: Dissociative symptoms and EEG changes were examined in a hypobaric chamber. RESULTS: No dissociation was noted. EEG slowing accompanied hypoxia, replicating previous findings.