Question

Now that we have covered all of the relevant body systems, which of the following are likely happening in the first 24 hours upon going to high altitude from sea level?

Select one:

a. Decreased aldosterone production

b. Decreased airway resistance

c. Increased TPR

d. Increased HR

e. Two of the above are correct

f. All of the above are correct

Answer 1

correct answer - f) all of the above are correct

Explanation -

• Due to hypoxia-induced chemoreceptor stimulation natriuresis takes place through direct suppression of the renin–aldosterone–angiotensin system (RAAS) . Hence aldosterone decreases at high altitude.
• As at high altitude air is less dense due to which airway resistance decreases to enable maximum inspiration and expiration.
• Total peripheral resistance increases due to raised hematocrit at high altitude . The blood attains great viscosity and becomes thick.
• To ensure sufficient oxygen demand at such low pressure the heart rate increases.