Heat and acute dehydration effects on acceleration response in man

J Appl Physiol Respir Environ Exerc Physiol. 1979 Jul;47(1):197-200. doi: 10.1152/jappl.1979.47.1.197.

Abstract

Though heat and dehydration each impair acceleration tolerance, interactions among these stresses have not previously been studied. Seven men were dehydrated in heat by 0, 1, and 3% of body weight before a series of +Gz, gradual-onset centrifuge runs with the capsule first 38 degrees C, then 20 degrees C. Heat alone raised heart rate by 6.5 beats/min independent of other stresses. Dehydration and acceleration appeared to act synergistically in raising HR. Heat lowered relaxed G tolerance by 0.3 G; dehydration tended to lower G tolerance and increased the variability of response to heat. A high-tolerance subgroup (n = 4) could normally sustain +7 Gz for 60 s with anti-G suit and straining, but 3% dehydration reduced mean time to 35 s. Dehydration was associated with a decrease in the loss of plasma volume at 7 G. Heat-induced tolerance loss appears similar for both gradual- and rapid-onset centrifuge profiles. In contrast, dehydration effects are greater in rapid-onset runs, evidence that normal anti-G protective mechanisms can partly counteract the effect of fluid deficit. The results are relevant for crew members of high-performance aircraft, where unexpected diminution of their normally high G tolerance can have disastrous consequences.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Acceleration / adverse effects*
  • Acute Disease
  • Adult
  • Aerospace Medicine*
  • Dehydration / complications*
  • Dehydration / etiology
  • Heart Rate
  • Hot Temperature / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Plasma Volume