Question

Describe the things that make females more likely than males to experience a decrease in maximal physical work capacity at altitude?

Answer 1

In high altitudes, a reduction in arterial oxygen content is observed. Long term exposure for few days causes restoration of arterial oxygen to normal (near sea level values). There is an increased hemoconcentration. Due to hemoconcentration, there is a decrement in cardiac output and stroke volume. Due to submaximal level of work, the restored content of oxygen cannot compensate for cardiac output declined at high altitude. A significant decrement in maximum rate of oxygen consumption results in hyperbaric hypoxia and decreased work capacity. If a pregnant woman is exposed to such conditions, there can be chances of maternal pre‐eclampsia,