A specific objective supplemental factor in evaluating acute mountain sickness: ΔHR in combination with SaO2.

ABSTRACT:

Background

So far, there have been no measurements confirmed useful in diagnosing acute mountain sickness (AMS). The aim of this study was to determine the role of heart rate (HR) difference (ΔHR) and oxygen saturation ( SaO2) as objective risk factors in aiding the diagnosis of AMS.

Methods

A total of 1,019 participants were assigned to either the acute exposure group (AEG): from 500 m to 3,700 m by flight within 2.5 h (n = 752); or the pre-acclimatization group (PAG): ascended to 4,400 m from 3,650 m within three hours by car after adapting 33 days at 3,650 m (n = 267). The questionnaires or measurements of resting SaO2 (oxygen saturation) and HR were completed between 18 and 24 h before departure and after arrival.

Results

Incidence of AMS was 61.3 % (461) in AEG,

SUBMITTER: Li M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4620634 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature