hrvatski

Peripheral capillary oxygen saturation in relation to aerobic capacity during Himalayas trek

High altitude tourism is becoming increasingly popular among non-athletic population but its potential impact on health is often neglected. This study investigated the relations of physical fitness and mean peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2) during the trek in altitudes.17 recreational lowland men (age 48±11) participated in 26 day Himalaya trek, the highest point reached being Mera Peak (6476m). The initial measurements included also a graded test till complete exhaustion on treadmill. From achieved time and given the treadmill speed and grade the maximal aerobic capacity was estimated and expressed in MET. During the tour, the SpO2 was recorded on every new altitude by pulse oximetry, altogether on 21 occasion. The results showed that the intensity that was achieved at maximal exertion (mean reached intensity was 14.91±2.14 METs) was significantly correlated with the mean peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (mean SpO2 88.48±2.63%) calculated from all measured SpO2 during the trek (Pearson r=0.713 at P<0.05). The higher mean SpO2mean values during the trek were seen in participants reaching the higher intensities on exertion test prior to the expedition. Interestingly, some previous papers reported the possibility to predict acute mountain sickness (AMS) by monitoring arterial oxygen saturation during ascent, but also, they found that the better aerobic capacity and younger age were related to more symptoms.

oxygen saturation, Himalaya, acute mountain sickness

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