The Physiology of Acute Mountain Sickness in Women
Abstract
The purpose of these investigations is to determine whether symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) are affected by menstrual cycle phase and oral contraceptives in women and whether the severity of AMS differs from men. The experiments consist of 12-hour exposures to a simulated altitude of 16,000 ft. Measurements of global and regional (brain magnetic resonance imaging) fluid homeostasis, ventilation, cognitive and autonomic function are emphasized in relation to control measurements and AMS symptoms. Nineteen women have been tested in both luteal and follicular phases of the menstrual cycle, confirmed by blood progesterone levels, and 13 on oral contraceptives. There is no difference in the severity of AMS symptoms during the luteal and follicular phases of the menstrual cycle, but women increase their ventilation at altitude more when in the luteal phase. The data collected to date does not suggest that taking oral contraceptives will serve to reduce AMS symptoms. Also, no significant difference in AMS susceptibility between men and women has been demonstrated. Preliminary results also suggest that total body water changes are directly related to AMS in all subjects. AMS in these acute exposures is not related to pulmonary gas exchange deterioration or to altitude-induced changes in the transcapillary albumin exchange rate or plasma volume.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA370357
Entities
People
- Jack Loeppy
Organizations
- Lovelace Foundation