Question

Occasionally an individual who remains at high altitude for too long develops chronic mountain sickness. It is characterized by the following clinical sequelae:

(1) an exceptionally high hematocrit

(2) elevated pulmonary arterial pressure

(3) an enlarged right side of the heart.

As it progresses, congestive heart failure and death ensues unless the person is removed to a lower altitude. Describe how the body normally adapts to elevated altitude and the causes for the sequence of events associated with chronic mountain sickness.

How do the physiological systems work together and how a homeostatic imbalance in one system affects others.

Answer 1

Ans) Adaption of elevated altitude:

1. Most high altitude adapted animals have amino acids changes in their haemoglobin molecules that increase inheret oxygen affinity

2. Carry more 0₂ in the blood during hypoxia

3. More capillaries equal to greater diffusion capacity

4. Maximum aerobic capacity is not necessary enhanced in high altitude animals

5. High altitude adaptions are more important for maintaining 0₂ supply in hypoxia, to meet similar 0₂ needs as lowlanders

Causes for event of Chronic mountain sickness (CMS):

1. CMS patients have lower Sa0₂ and higher PAP

2. lower PA02 due to lower levels of ventilation and more hypoxic pulmonary vasocontriction, higher RBC production.

2.Ans)

Hemostasis is maintained within the body by a complex series of organs and organs sytems. It maintains a steady internal enviornment for proper functioning of the body. It composed of receptors, control center and an effector.

If hemostasis imbalance occurs when hemostasis within the body cannot be maintained can lead to death occurs