Changes in Respiratory Function Following Intermittent Living in the Upland Environment and the Lowland Environment

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study is to examine the effects on respiratory function and oxygen saturation of intermittent life in the uplands at an altitude above sea level of approximately 850 m. [Subjects and Methods] The study subjects were on 100 female student subjects attending a university located in the uplands. The subjects’ oxygen saturation, heart rates and respiratory functions were measured at the university, which has campuses both in the uplands and the lowlands. [Results] Freshmen showed differences in oxygen saturation, heart rate, and most respiratory function items between the different altitudes; however, seniors did not exhibit any differences. There were no differences in oxygen saturation and heart rate between the uplands and the lowlands either group. In the uplands, peak forced expiratory flow was shown to be high in the seniors, who also had better cardiopulmonary function. [Conclusion] Senior students, who had been exposed to the upland environment for a longer period of time, generally showed better respiratory function. Therefore, alternating living between the uplands and the lowlands can be said to improve an individual’s respiratory function.