What Impact Does Initial High Altitude Exposure Have on the Alveolar-Arterial

Question

What impact does initial high altitude exposure have on the alveolar-arterial oxygen difference?
A) It is not affected by changes in altitude
B) It is increased
C) It is normal but will increase during exercise
D) It is decreased

Accepted Answer

The alveolar-arterial oxygen difference increases with initial high altitude exposure due to factors such as ventilation-perfusion mismatch and diffusion limitation, which are more pronounced at high altitudes.