Aviat Space Envir Md
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Aviat Space Envir Md · Nov 2014
Simulated flying altitude and performance of continuous positive airway pressure devices.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is used in air ambulances to treat patients with impaired oxygenation. Differences in mechanical principles between CPAP devices may affect their performance at different ambient air pressures, as will occur in an air ambulance during flight. ⋯ The velocity of airflow through the flow resistor CPAP device is strongly influenced by reduced ambient air pressure, leading to a higher delivered CPAP effect than the preset CPAP level. Threshold resistor CPAP devices seem to have robust performance regardless of altitude. Thus, the threshold resistor CPAP device is probably more appropriate for CPAP treatment in an air ambulance cabin, where ambient pressure will vary during patient transport.
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Aviat Space Envir Md · Nov 2014
A retrospective study of acute mountain sickness on Mt. Kilimanjaro using trekking company data.
High altitude illnesses (HAI) are a risk factor for any individual who is exposed to a significant increase in altitude. To learn more about the epidemiology of HAI, we sought to determine if health records from a commercial trekking company could provide novel data on the prevalence of HAI, as well as efficacy data regarding common HAI therapeutics. ⋯ The prevalence of AMS symptoms was not reduced by taking 2 extra days to reach the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Prophylactic acetazolamide modestly improved oxygen saturation; however, it did not reduce symptoms. Therapeutic dexamethasone, especially at higher altitudes, was effective at reducing symptoms. We conclude that meaningful high altitude physiological data can be obtained from private trekking companies.