What lung capacity level makes one less prone to altitude sickness
Oct 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingli
Introduction
Generally speaking, "high altitude reaction" refers to acute mountain sickness. Clinically, there is no evidence that a specific lung capacity makes one more or less susceptible to high altitude reaction, as there is no absolute relationship between lung capacity and the occurrence of such reactions. High altitude reaction occurs when the body rapidly enters a plateau environment above 3,000 meters elevation and is exposed to low pressure and low oxygen levels, leading to various discomforts. It is a common condition unique to high-altitude regions.
In general, "high altitude reaction" refers to acute mountain sickness. Clinically, there is no evidence supporting the idea that a higher lung capacity makes one less susceptible to high altitude reactions, as there is no absolute correlation between lung capacity and the occurrence of such reactions. The detailed explanation is as follows:
High altitude reaction occurs when the body rapidly enters a plateau environment above 3,000 meters and is exposed to low pressure and low oxygen levels, leading to various discomforts; it is a common condition unique to high-altitude regions. Lung capacity, on the other hand, refers to the total volume of air exhaled forcefully after maximal inhalation and consists of three components: tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, and expiratory reserve volume. Generally, high altitude reaction is related to the body's oxygen absorption capacity and the ability of hemoglobin to carry oxygen. Since lung capacity does not directly reflect the body’s oxygen demand, the belief that greater lung capacity prevents high altitude reaction is incorrect.
High altitude reaction is an acute physiological response of the body to the high-altitude environment. It represents clinical symptoms that appear during the process in which the body’s various functions, regulated by neural and humoral mechanisms, achieve a new balance under the new conditions. These symptoms often resolve spontaneously.
If a person experiences discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
