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Investigation into Deep Breathing through Measurement of Ventilatory Parameters and Observation of Breathing Patterns
Published on: September 16, 2019
Ventilatory parameters at rest after months of stay at 3300 m: A comparison between acclimatized lowlanders and
Shelka Dua1, S P Singh2, Anuj Chawla3
1Classified Specialist (Physiology), 165 Military Hospital, C/o 99 APO, India.
Background:
Increased pulmonary ventilation helps lowlanders and natives to maintain arterial oxygenation at high altitudes. Natives of Ladakh have been shown to have similar ventilatory parameters as Tibetans at 3300 m. But there is limited literature comparing these parameters in Ladakhi natives with acclimatized lowland sojourners.
Methods:
End-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure (EtCO2), blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and hemoglobin concentration (Hb) were measured in 276 participants, 126 native highlanders (NHL - 40 females, 86 males) and 150 acclimatized lowlanders (ALL - 60 females, 90 males).
Results:
EtCO2 was greater in the NHL compared to the ALL, (33.8 ± 3.3 vs 31 ± 2.5 mmHg) although SpO2 was lower (90.9 ± 2.4 vs 91.7 ± 2.3%). When grouped by sex, NHL males had significantly greater EtCO2 than NHL females, ALL males and ALL females. Hb and calculated arterial oxygen content was similar in Ladakhis and acclimatized lowlanders, although greater in males compared to females. Systemic blood pressure, heart rate and the proportion of hypertensives was significantly greater in the ALL.
Conclusion:
Native Ladakhis, have a significantly greater resting EtCO2 (especially in males) and lower SpO2 than acclimatized lowlanders. Blood Hb concentration and oxygen content is, however, similar in natives and acclimatized lowlanders of the same sex.
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