Question 1

Question

A 25-year-old elite swimmer training at sea level travels to compete at altitude (2400 meters). After 2 days of acclimatization, she experiences decreased performance. Her arterial blood gas shows pH 7.46, PaO2 65 mmHg, PaCO2 32 mmHg, HCO3- 22 mEq/L. Analyze the limiting factor for her current exercise performance at altitude.

Accepted Answer

Inadequate time for erythropoietin-stimulated red blood cell production

Answer

Decreased plasma volume reducing stroke volume and cardiac output

Answer

Alkalosis shifting the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve leftward

Answer

Incomplete respiratory compensation reducing oxygen delivery

Answer

Reduced oxidative enzyme activity in skeletal muscle mitochondria

Altitude and Diving Physiology — MCQs

Altitude and Diving Physiology — MCQs

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