Abstract
In order to study the use of positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) to prevent acute mountain sickness (AMS), 22 subjects were exposed randomly to 8-h hypobaric hypoxia in a hypobaric chamber (4500 m, 589 hPa, 22°C) once being administered 5-cm H2O PEEP and once without. The prevention of AMS by PEEP was evaluated by scoring AMS according to the Lake Louise system (self-report questionnaire and clinical assessment) throughout the experiment with O2 saturation (SO2) and heart rate measurements being made. Arterial blood analyses (partial pressures of arterial O2 and CO2, P aO2, P aCO2, and pH) were made at the end of the exposure. Results showed decreased AMS scores with PEEP at the end of the 8-h hypoxia [1.50 (SEM 1.32) vs 3.23 (SEM 2.07), P < 0.01 for self-report plus clinical assessment scores] with a lower prevalence (23% vs 55%, P < 0.01). The SO2, P aO2, P aCO2 and HCO3 − did not change significantly. However, a smaller increase in arterial pH [7.47 (SEM 0.02) vs 7.50 (SEM 0.02), P < 0.05] was observed with PEEP, attesting a lesser alkalosis. Moreover, heart rate increased with PEEP (P < 0.05). In conclusion, this study would suggest that a 5-cm H2O PEEP may help decrease AMS scores at the end of an 8-h exposure to hypoxia in a hypobaric chamber. Such a method could be used to prevent AMS in such experimental conditions without adverse effects.
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Accepted: 26 May 1997
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Savourey, G., Caterini, R., Launay, JC. et al. Positive end expiratory pressure as a method for preventing acute mountain sickness. Eur J Appl Physiol 77, 32–36 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/s004210050296
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s004210050296