What body functions are affected by decreased pressure?

Decreased pressure, especially in the context of aviation or high-altitude environments, primarily affects breathing and blood pressure, along with other bodily functions.

At altitudes where pressure decreases, the oxygen availability in the air diminishes, leading to hypoxia (insufficient oxygen in the body). This can cause a variety of issues related to breathing, as the lungs must work harder to extract oxygen from the thinner air. Blood pressure can also be affected, as the body tries to compensate for the reduced oxygen availability, which can alter fluid balance and the overall cardiovascular response.

Additionally, the body can experience a range of other effects related to decreased pressure, including impacts on the central nervous system, which may influence various functions and organ systems. Understanding the implications of decreased pressure is crucial for maintaining safety and health in environments like those encountered by naval aircrew, where rapid ascents and descents can occur.