HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY: THE EFFECTS OF ALTITUDE ON HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

Human Anatomy And Physiology: The Effects Of Altitude On Human Physiology



Human Anatomy And Physiology: The Effects Of Altitude On Human Physiology

 

Mozart had suffered from edema himself and was described to have severe swelling making it difficult to even turn in bed. Aside from this ? the composer was also noted to have had back pain ? malaise and rash ? all of which are symptoms of a streptococcal infection and edema. So indeed ? what was it that exactly brought a harrowing death upon this musical genius? Edema is visible swelling from fluid accretion in body tissues. “Edema most usually occurs in the feet and legs ? where it is referred to as peripheral edema.” The swelling is the consequence of the buildup of excess fluid beneath the skin in the areas within the tissues. All tissues of the body are made up of cells and connective tissues that hold the cells together. This connective tissue around the cells and blood vessels is recognized as the interstitium. (Cho 2002)

Most of the body's fluids that are instituted outside of the cells are in general stored in two spaces; the blood vessels (as the "liquid" or serum portion of your blood) and the interstitial spaces (not within the cells). “In a variety of diseases ? surplus fluid can accrue in either one or both of these compartments.” The body's organs have interstitial spaces where liquid can accumulate. A buildup of fluid in the interstitial air spaces in the lungs happens in a disorder called pulmonary edema. Additionally ? excess fluid occasionally collects in what is called the third space ? which includes cavities in the abdomen or in the chest. Anasarca refers to the relentless ? widespread accretion of” fluid in the all of the tissues and cavities of the body at the same time.” Pitting edema can be recognized by applying force to the distended area by depressing the skin with a finger. If the pressing causes a serration that persists for some time after the release of the pressure ? the edema is referred to as pitting edema. Any form of pressure ? such as from the elastic in socks ? can induce pitting with this type of edema. In non-pitting edema ? which usually affects the legs or arms ? pressure that is applied to the skin does not result in a persistent indentation. (Renkin 1994)

Non-pitting edema can occur in certain disorders of the lymphatic system such as lymphedema ? which is a disturbance of the lymphatic circulation that may occur after a mastectomy ? lymph node surgery ? “or congenitally. Another cause of non-pitting edema of the legs is called pretibial myxedema ?” which is an engorgement over the shin that occurs in some patients with hyperthyroidism. Non-pitting edema of the legs is not easy to treat. Diuretic medications are usually not effective ? even though elevation of the legs sporadically during the day and compressive devices may ...