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Early fluid retention and severe acute mountain sickness
Jack A Loeppky1, Milton V Icenogle, Damon Maes
1Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA. loeppky@unm.edu
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|October 27, 2004
Summary
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) involves fluid retention starting within 3 hours due to reduced urine flow. Antidiuretic hormone levels rise in those with AMS, correlating with symptom severity and fluid buildup.
Area of Science:
- Altitude physiology
- Human physiology
- Environmental medicine
Background:
- Field studies on acute mountain sickness (AMS) often involve uncontrolled variables like exercise and diet.
- Understanding fluid status during AMS is crucial for prevention and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate fluid status differences between individuals developing AMS and asymptomatic individuals under controlled simulated altitude conditions.
- To identify early physiological markers associated with AMS development.
Main Methods:
- Controlled laboratory study simulating high altitude (4,880 m) for 8-12 hours.
- Serial measurements of fluid balance, electrolytes, hormones, and urine output.
- Evaluation of AMS using Lake Louise (LL) and AMS-C scores.
Main Results:
- Significant fluid retention in AMS subjects began within 3 hours, linked to reduced urine flow.
- Plasma sodium levels decreased, indicating body water dilution in AMS.
- Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) rose in AMS subjects, correlating with symptom severity and fluid retention.
Conclusions:
- Early fluid retention and altered ADH levels are key features of AMS development.
- Controlled laboratory conditions can effectively differentiate physiological responses between AMS and non-AMS individuals.
- Findings provide insights into the pathophysiology of AMS, distinct from exercise-induced altitude sickness.