Episode 25 - Acute responses to altitude - Part 2

In Part 2, we expand on the acute responses to altitude, focusing on sympathetic activation, which raises catecholamine levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. We also examine altitude diuresis—the increase in urine output triggered by respiratory alkalosis—which reduces plasma volume and elevates dehydration risk. The episode highlights the early rise in erythropoietin (EPO) and greater reliance on carbohydrate metabolism due to limited oxygen availability. Finally, we discuss cognitive and sleep disturbances, as well as the impact of altitude on aerobic and anaerobic performance, including insights from the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.