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The physiology of high altitude: An introduction to the cardio-respiratory changes occurring on ascent to altitude

par Mason, Nicholas
Référence Current anaesthesia and critical care, 11, 1, page (34-41)
Publication Publié, 2000-02

Article révisé par les pairs

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Résumé :

Both the high altitude physiologist and the intensivist are challenged by the human organism in a hypoxic environment. The variation in barometric pressure which occurs with latitude influences enormously the inspired oxygen concentration at extreme altitudes and can significantly effect performance. The cardiorespiratory changes which take place at high altitude, and in particular the putative control mechanisms increasing ventilation; changes in the oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve; diffusion limitation during exercise; cardiac function; the pulmonary circulation; and changes in erythropoiesis and fluid homeostasis are reviewed. (C) 2000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.