Key result
SpO2 ≥86% is linked to low acute mountain sickness risk, while HRV lacks diagnostic value.
Why the study?
The utility of heart rate variability and other cardiovascular parameters for diagnosing acute mountain sickness in high-altitude clinical settings was unclear.
Are heart rate variability, oximetry, and blood pressure useful in diagnosing mild-to-moderate acute mountain sickness at high altitude?
Comparison
Participants diagnosed with AMS vs participants free from altitude illness
Design
Cross-sectional study
Authors
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SpO2 ≥86% may aid ruling out AMS in the field; leaves open prospective validation and HRV utility.
Cross-Sectional (n=41)
No
Are heart rate variability, oximetry, and blood pressure useful in diagnosing mild-to-moderate acute mountain sickness at high altitude?
In high-altitude settings, an SpO2 ≥86% indicates a low likelihood of acute mountain sickness, while heart rate variability is not a useful diagnostic tool.
Koehle et al. (2010) conducted a cross-sectional in mild-to-moderate acute mountain sickness (n=41). Arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate variability vs. Participants free from altitude illness was evaluated on Diagnosis of acute mountain sickness (Lake Louise Score). An arterial oxygen saturation of 86% or greater was associated with a low likelihood of acute mountain sickness, whereas heart rate variability was not useful for diagnosis.
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