| This study evaluates the effects on short-term memory of exposure to altitudes of 11,000--13,600 ft (3500--4200 meters). Since the effects of altitude on short-term memory are often associated with gross physiological changes such as shortness of breath, hyperventilation, and changes in blood pH, a survey of these effects of altitude were first performed, including all symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).; After establishing relationships between the physiological signs of high altitude exposure and the effect such exposure has on short term memory loss, a further investigation was performed of the specific effects of high altitude hypoxia on the short-term memory of test subjects at two observatories in Hawai'i, Keck and UKIRT on Mauna Kea (4200m altitude), and at the Atmospheric observatory on Mauna Loa (3500m altitude).; Results of this study indicate that commuters to these altitudes suffer significant cognitive impairment as measured by changes in short-term memory. This impairment is most severe upon arrival at altitude, decreases for a short time, then becoming again severe. This temporary compensatory response is mirrored in changes in blood oxygen levels. There is evidence of long-term impact on cognitive function as well, though the scope of this study is too limited to make statistically significant conclusions on this.; It was demonstrated in this study that there exists an acute adaptive response to exposure to intermediate altitudes, and that the tolerance to high altitude hypoxic amnesia improved sequentially throughout the schedule of mountain work, most notably with shift-workers, who have a much better chance to acclimatize to the hypoxic environment. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
