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Related Experiment Videos

Effect of different ascent profiles on performance at 4,200 m elevation.

P J Forster

    Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
    |August 1, 1985
    PubMed
    Summary

    Sea level residents ascending to high altitude (4,200 m) experienced fewer symptoms initially but showed poorer cognitive performance. Extended stays improved adaptation, reducing symptoms and enhancing cognitive function in high-altitude environments.

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    Area of Science:

    • High-altitude physiology
    • Environmental medicine
    • Aerospace medicine

    Background:

    • Understanding human physiological responses to high altitude is crucial for occupational health and safety.
    • Rapid ascents to high elevations, common in various professions, pose risks of altitude sickness and performance decrements.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To compare the physiological and cognitive effects of short-term versus prolonged exposure to high altitude (4,200 m) in sea-level residents.
    • To assess the incidence of altitude sickness and changes in psychomotor and memory performance.

    Main Methods:

    • Two groups of sea-level residents ascended to 4,200 m on Mauna Kea: 'commuters' (6 hours) and 'shiftworkers' (5 days).
    • Physiological parameters (pulse, blood pressure, oxygen tension) and altitude sickness symptoms were monitored.
    • Cognitive function was assessed using tests of numerate memory and psychomotor ability.

    Main Results:

    • Commuters had lower partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) but fewer initial altitude sickness symptoms compared to shiftworkers.
    • After 5 days, shiftworkers reported fewer symptoms and demonstrated improved performance in memory and psychomotor tests.
    • Both groups showed increased pulse rates; shiftworkers also exhibited elevated systemic blood pressure. Arterial-alveolar oxygen tension gradients remained unchanged.

    Conclusions:

    • Short-term high-altitude exposure can lead to initial discomfort and cognitive impairment, even with rapid ascents.
    • Prolonged exposure (5 days) facilitates acclimatization, reducing symptoms and improving cognitive performance at 4,200 m.
    • Serious altitude-related illnesses like pulmonary and cerebral edema were uncommon despite minimal acclimatization provisions.

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