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If you find yourself suffering from acute fatigue, stay on the ground. Glider pilots often become fatigued while flying due to soaring in close proximity to other gliders in areas of lift or because of the constant requirement to see and avoid other traffic. Getting adequate rest is the only way to prevent fatigue from occurring. You should avoid flying when you have not had a full night’s rest, when you have been working excessive hours, or have had an especially exhausting or stressful day. If you suspect you are suffering from chronic fatigue, consult your doctor. 

## Hyperventilation 

Hyperventilation occurs when you are experiencing emotional stress, fright, or pain, and your breathing rate and depth increase, although the carbon dioxide is already at a reduced level in the blood. This can happen to both the experienced and novice pilot. Hyperventilation causes an excessive loss of carbon dioxide from your body, which can lead to unconsciousness due to the respiratory system’s overriding mechanism to regain control of breathing. 

Glider pilots who encounter extreme or unexpected turbulence or strong areas of sink over rough terrain or water may unconsciously increase their breathing rate. When flying at higher altitudes, either with or without oxygen, a tendency to breathe more rapidly than normal may occur, which can lead to hyperventilation. 

It is important to know the symptoms of hyperventilation and correctly treat for it.  [Figure 13-6]  Treatment for hyperventilation involves restoring the proper carbon dioxide level back in the body. Breathing normally is both the best 

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prevention and the best cure for hyperventilation. In addition to slowing the breathing rate, you also can breathe into a paper bag or talk aloud to over-come hyperventilation. Recovery is usually rapid once the breathing rate is returned to normal. 

## Inner Ear Discomfort 

Gliders are not pressurized, therefore, pressure changes can affect glider pilots that are flying at high altitudes. Inner ear pain and a temporary reduction in ability to hear are caused by the ascents and descents of the glider. The physiological explanation for this discomfort is a difference between the pressure of the air outside the body and the air inside the middle ear. The middle ear cavity is small and located in the bone of the skull. While the external ear canal is always at the same pressure as the outside air, the pressure in the middle ear often changes more slowly. Even a slight difference between external pressure and middle ear pressure can cause discomfort. 

