EFFECTS OF SUPPLEMENTAL O2 ADMINISTRATION IN CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE

High dose O2 has detrimental hemodynamic effects in normal subjects, yet O2 is a common therapy for heart failure. Whether it improves or worsens hemodynamics in heart failure is unknown. A pre-determined set of hemodynamic parameters were studied in congestive heart failure patients breathing room air and during twenty minutes of 100% O2. We will also examine the effects of graded concentrations of O2 (room air, 24%, 40% and 100% O2). Muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and ventilation are measured during 100% O2.