Abstract

This chapter describes the physiological changes that occur when the organism is subjected to physical exercise, from resting state, at sea level and at high altitude. In particular, it focuses on compensatory mechanisms that regulate major respiratory functions, such as: gas exchange, ventilation-perfusion distribution, tissue oxygenation, pulmonary and systemic circulation, and acid-base balance. In addition, mechanisms involved in acclimatization to high altitude, acute and chronic mountain sickness, and adaptation to high altitude are briefly described.