Yes, according to a recent NEJM study. When comparing MRIs, climbers were found to have “a reduction in both white and gray matter in various parts of the brain.”
Cognitive function was also impaired, with deficits in memory and executive function.
Apparently, there’s also an association between brain damage other extreme conditions, like scuba diving in cold water.
There are just some things that the human body isn’t designed to do regularly.
