What happens to blood pressure as altitude increases?

As altitude increases, blood pressure typically decreases due to the lower barometric pressure found at higher elevations. At sea level, atmospheric pressure is higher, allowing the body to maintain standard blood pressure levels relatively easily. As one ascends to higher altitudes, the reduced external atmospheric pressure results in less oxygen available in the air, which can affect various physiological responses, including blood pressure.

At higher altitudes, the body may compensate for lower oxygen availability by adjusting cardiovascular dynamics, which can lead to a decrease in blood pressure. This occurs because the body has to work harder to circulate blood efficiently with less oxygen, potentially leading to a reduction in vascular resistance and blood volume, further contributing to lower blood pressure.

Understanding this relationship highlights the physiological adaptation required for maintaining homeostasis during altitude exposure, making it crucial for those involved in aviation and related fields to be aware of these changes.