Preacclimatization in hypoxic chambers for high altitude sojourns

Sleep Breath. 2010 Sep;14(3):187-91. doi: 10.1007/s11325-009-0307-x. Epub 2009 Oct 16.

Abstract

Introduction: Since hypoxic chambers are more and more available, they are used for preacclimatization to prepare for sojourns at high altitude. Since there are different protocols and the data differ, there is no general consensus about the standard how to perform preacclimatization by simulated altitude. The paper reviews the different types of exposure and focuses on the target groups which may benefit from preacclimatization.

Discussion: Since data about intermittent hypoxia for some hours per day to reduce the incidence of acute mountain sickness differ, it is suggested to perform preacclimatization by sleeping some nights at a simulated altitude which follows the altitude profile of the "gold standard" for high altitude acclimatization.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acclimatization / physiology*
  • Acid-Base Equilibrium / physiology
  • Adaptation, Physiological / physiology*
  • Altitude Sickness / physiopathology*
  • Altitude Sickness / prevention & control*
  • Atmosphere Exposure Chambers*
  • Brain Edema / physiopathology
  • Brain Edema / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Hypoxia / physiopathology*
  • Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit / physiology
  • Mountaineering
  • Pulmonary Edema / physiopathology
  • Pulmonary Edema / prevention & control
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1, alpha Subunit