High Altitude

This book explores how humans respond to the hypoxia of high altitudes, addressing the response of lowlanders to sudden and sustained exposure, as well as that of those living permanently at high elevations. It examines adaptation and maladaptation, acute and chronic high-altitude illnesses, and the challenges faced by lowland dwellers with pre-existing medical conditions who venture to high altitude! Containing more than 3000 references and over 200 tables, charts, and graphs that support the text, "High Altitude" offers an anthropological perspective on those who dwell permanently at great heights; investigates how cells sense oxygen, including arterial chemoreceptors, erythropoietin-producing tissues, and pulmonary vascular smooth muscle; discusses the role of individual organs as well as their integrated function in enabling physical and mental performance at high altitude; focuses on the additional metabolic and circulatory demands of perception, thought, and action in the brain; considers how organisms defend themselves against the stress of hypoxia and more! Written by more than 55 contributors who are among the world's leading authorities and investigators, this book is a provocative reference for pulmonologists, physiologists, biologists, critical care specialists, internists, primary care physicians, pediatricians, and medical school students.