Reduction of olfactory sensitivity during normobaric hypoxia.

Abstract Objective Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is caused by a low partial pressure of oxygen and may occur above 2500 m. The aim of this research was to evaluate olfactory and gustatory abilities of healthy subjects during baseline conditions and after seven hours of normobaric hypoxia. Methods Sixteen healthy subjects were assessed using the Sniffin’ Sticks, as well as intensity and pleasantness ratings. Gustatory function was evaluated utilizing the Taste Strips. Experiments were carried out under baseline conditions (518 m altitude) followed by a second testing session after seven hours of normobaric hypoxia exposure (comparable to 4000 m altitude). Results During normobaric hypoxia ol…