Causes of hypoxia at high altitudes
Apr 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Highland hypoxia may be caused by reduced partial pressure of oxygen, inadequate respiratory adaptation, or insufficient circulatory adaptation, and requires symptomatic treatment under medical guidance. Additionally, it could be induced by cold exposure. In high-altitude regions, increasing intake of protein and carbohydrates appropriately can enhance the body's energy and nutritional levels, thereby alleviating symptoms of hypoxia.
High-altitude hypoxia may be caused by decreased partial pressure of oxygen, inadequate respiratory system adaptation, or insufficient circulatory system adaptation, and requires symptomatic treatment under medical guidance.
1. Decreased Partial Pressure of Oxygen
As altitude increases, the partial pressure of oxygen gradually decreases, leading to hypoxia in body tissues and organs, which may result in shortness of breath and coughing. Before living in high-altitude areas, individuals can undergo acclimatization training to gradually adapt to the high-altitude environment and improve the adaptive capacity of the respiratory and circulatory systems.
2. Inadequate Respiratory System Adaptation
In high-altitude regions, due to reduced oxygen partial pressure, the body requires more oxygen to maintain normal physiological functions. However, if the respiratory system fails to adapt adequately, the body cannot fully absorb oxygen.
3. Circulatory System Adaptation
In high-altitude areas, reduced oxygen partial pressure demands increased oxygen supply for normal bodily functions, but inadequate circulatory adaptation prevents efficient delivery of oxygen to tissues and organs. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as acetazolamide tablets or sustained-release magnesium valproate tablets may be taken to enhance respiratory and circulatory adaptation and alleviate hypoxia symptoms.
In addition, cold exposure may also contribute to hypoxia. In high-altitude environments, increasing intake of protein and carbohydrates appropriately can help improve the body's energy and nutritional status, thereby relieving symptoms of hypoxia.
