ABSTRACT
Background: Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) refers to signs and symptoms associated with hypobaric hypoxia. Its reported incidence is highly variable. Aim: To determine the incidence of AMS symptoms and severity at 3,500 and 4,250 m above sea level. Subjects and methods : A population of 362 soldiers without former exposure to altitude was studied. AMS symptoms, were assessed by an extensively used standard questionnaire (Lake Louise), applied 36-72 hours after exposure to high altitude. Results : A group of 200 recruits ascended to Putre (3,500 m) and a second group (162) ascended to Alto Pacollo (4,250 m). The incidence of AMS was 28 percent and 60 percent respectively (p<0.05). Headaches and sleeping difficulties were the most frequent symptoms at both altitudes. Furthermore, severe digestive problems and dizziness were described in a high proportion of individuals at both 3,500 and 4,250 m. Conclusions: The prevalence of AMS in this study is similar to that reported elsewhere at equivalent altitudes
Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Adolescent , Altitude Sickness/epidemiology , Surveys and Questionnaires , Military Personnel/statistics & numerical dataABSTRACT
Maximal oxygen uptake is considered by the International Biological Programme as the international standard of cardiorespiratory adequacy and physical condition. To measure maximal oxygen uptake in normal Chilean subjects, to establish normal reference values. Maximal oxygen uptake was measure in 2,203 subjects (451 women) aged 7 to 66 years old, during maximal exercise in a cyclo-argometer or treadmill. The sample included trained sportsmen. Maximal oxygen uptake in men was 3.4+0.8l/min (range 1.1 to 5.6) or 55.2+9.2 ml/kg/min )range 23.8 to 83.2). In women, the figures were 2.55+0.55 l/min (range 0.87 to 3.82) or 47.5+8.0 ml/kg/min (range 20.8 to 76.3). These values decrease 0.65 ml/kg/min per year of age