Reddout is a term that refers to a phenomenon experienced by individuals who are subjected to a high amount of acceleration or gravitational force. It is commonly used in the context of aerospace, aviation, and space travel.
Reddout occurs when the amount of gravitational force placed on the body exceeds the normal force of gravity. This, in turn, causes an increased flow of blood and other bodily fluids towards the head, leading to a red appearance of the visual field. The increased blood pressure and blood flow to the eyes result in a reddening of the vision.
This phenomenon is caused by the blood vessels in the eyes, particularly the capillaries, dilating under the excess gravitational force. The dilation leads to an increased blood flow and accumulation of blood within the eyes, resulting in the characteristic reddish appearance.
Reddout can cause various associated symptoms such as blurred vision, dizziness, and discomfort in the eyes. It can be particularly concerning in situations where pilots or astronauts experience high g-forces during maneuvers or landings.
To alleviate or prevent reddout, protective measures such as G-suits, which apply pressure to the lower body to prevent blood pooling in the lower extremities, can be utilized. Additionally, training and conditioning programs are often implemented to help individuals better cope with and adapt to high g-forces without experiencing reddout.
