Environmental effects on the body - Altitude

Question 1

Altitude

Answer 1

as altitude increases the barometric pressure of the air decreases this has a significant effect on the oxygen in the air we breathe.
- the % of oxygen in the air stays the same but the partial pressure of oxygen decreases.

Question 2

Gaseous exchange

Answer 2

with a reduction of partial pressure the rate of diffusion is reduced at the alveoli, this leads to :
- decreased oxygen transportation to the muscles
- reduced diffusion of oxygen into the muscle cell.

Question 3

Effects of altitude on the respiratory system and CV system

Answer 3

if an athlete competes at high altitude, the rate of oxygen diffusion decreases reducing haemoglobin saturation and resulting poor transport of o2.

Question 4

As a consequence:

Answer 4

• blood volume decreases
• stroke volume decreases which increases heart rate.
• maximal cardiac output stroke volume and heart rate decrease during maximum intensity exercise
• these combine to reduce aerobic capacity and VO2 max impacting on the intensity and duration of performance.

Question 5

Altitude acclimatisation

Answer 5

a process where the athlete gradually adapts to a change in their environment.
3-5 days : for low altitude performances
1-2 weeks: for moderate altitude performance
2+ weeks: for high altitude (3000m+)
4+ weeks: for extreme altitude (5000-5500m)

Question 6

Acclimatisation benefits respiratory and CV system

Answer 6

1. release of erythprotein which increases red blood cell production.
2. breathing rate and ventilation stabilise
3. stroke volume and cardiac output reduce as oxygen transport becomes more efficient
4. reduced sickness, headaches etc.