Study on How Short-Term Low Oxygen Levels Affect Right Heart Function in Healthy Adults Using Simulated Mountain Altitudes

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to understand how the healthy right side of the heart, especially the right ventricle, reacts to short-term exposure to lower oxygen levels like those found at high altitudes. The study focuses on healthy adults living below 800 meters and examines heart function under simulated altitudes of 490, 2,500, and 4,000 meters. This helps provide a reference to better support patients with heart or lung diseases in the future. Participants inhale special gas mixtures that mimic these altitudes in a randomized order during three separate sessions. Each session includes a resting period and a light cycling exercise at two different intensities. The study uses a triple-blind, randomized, crossover design where neither participants nor researchers know which altitude condition is being tested at a given time. During each visit, heart ultrasounds and vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are recorded at rest and during exercise. Participants also report symptoms like shortness of breath and leg fatigue. Blood samples are taken to analyze oxygen and other markers. The primary measure is the right ventricular function, with several secondary heart and lung function tests. Participation usually spans two to three days, arranged flexibly to fit individual schedules.

Effect of Acute Hypoxia on RIght VEntRicular Function in Healthy Adults.