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Subjective symptoms and postural control during a disabled submarine simulation.
A Cymerman1, A J Young, T J R Francis
1U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA.
Summary
Submarine simulations reveal that prolonged exposure to cold and low oxygen significantly impairs balance and mobility. These environmental conditions also increase subjective symptoms like cold discomfort and muscle distress.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Medicine
- Human Physiology
- Submarine Medicine
Background:
- Simulating hazardous environments is crucial for understanding human physiological responses.
- Disabled submarines present unique challenges including altered atmospheric composition and temperature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of combined cold and hypoxia on submariner physiology and postural stability.
- To assess subjective symptom changes during simulated submarine emergencies.
Main Methods:
- Seven submariners were exposed to a normobaric environment simulating a disabled submarine (16.75% O2, 4°C, 85% RH) for 5 days.
- Postural stability was measured using a computerized balance system (eyes open, eyes closed, dynamic tests).
- Subjective symptoms were assessed daily using the Environmental Symptoms Questionnaire (ESQ).
Main Results:
- Postural stability significantly deteriorated after 2.7 days of exposure (87% eyes open, 26% eyes closed).
- Cold, distress, and muscle discomfort symptom subsets increased significantly with exposure duration.
- No significant changes were observed in symptoms related to acute mountain sickness, exertion, fatigue, or alertness.
Conclusions:
- Combined cold and hypoxia significantly impact postural stability and induce subjective symptoms in submariners.
- These findings highlight the risks to balance and mobility during prolonged submarine emergencies.
- Understanding these effects is vital for operational safety and task performance in confined, hazardous environments.