High altitude flatus expulsion
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HAFE or high altitude flatus expulsion is a gastrointestinal syndrome which involves the spontaneous passage of increased quantities of rectal gases at high altitudes.[1] First described by Joseph Hamel in c. 1820. [2]It was rediscovered in 1981 by Paul Auerbach and York Miller.[3]
Informal review by peers of Auerbach and Miller noted earlier work of subtle title, such as that by Davis, as early as 1972. [4]
The phenomenon is based on the differential in atmospheric pressure, directly correlated to the observer's frequency of and level of experience in high-altitude metabolism. As the external pressure decreases, the pressure within the body is relatively higher, and the urge to expel gas to relieve the pressure is relatively greater. In high-altitude locations, recently-arrived guests at parties are often known to favor outside locations (patios or decks) in lieu of remaining in the indoor environment.[who?]
Also known by backpackers as High Altitude Gas (HAG).
[edit] See also
- High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE)
- High altitude cerebral edema (HACE)
[edit] References
- ^ Medicine For the Outdoors by Paul S. Auerbach, M.D. © 1999 by Paul S. Auerbach, M.D.
- ^ Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. - High Altitude Medicine & Biology - 2(4):551
- ^ High Altitude Flatus Expulsion (HAFE)
- ^ E.Y. Davis, FRCP(Ret), "Hafe In Nepal" West J Med. 1981 April; 134(4): 366, identifying "Flatulence Accompanying Rigorous Trekking," Kathmandu Medical Bulletin, 1972.
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