Nocturnal Periodic Breathing during Acclimatization at Very High Altitude at Mount Muztagh Ata (7,546 m)

Abstract

Our field study provides novel data on nocturnal oxygen saturation, breathing patterns, and ventilation at very high altitude. It demonstrates that periodic breathing increases during acclimatization over 2 weeks at altitudes greater than 3,730 m, despite improved oxygen saturation consistent with a progressive increase in loop gain of the respiratory control system. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00514826).