Effect of temperature at low and high that affects shifts of O2 Hb dissociation curve

Let's look at how temperature affects the O₂-Hb dissociation curve.

Temperature is another factor that influences the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen.

1. Effect of High Temperature:

   • When body temperature increases (e.g., during exercise or fever), hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen decreases.
   • This means hemoglobin releases oxygen more readily to the tissues.
   • Physiologically, active tissues generate heat, and they also have a higher metabolic demand for oxygen. The decreased affinity ensures that more oxygen is delivered to these warmer, more active tissues.
   • This causes the O₂-Hb dissociation curve to shift to the right.

2. Effect of Low Temperature:

   • When body temperature decreases (e.g., during hypothermia), hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen increases.
   • This means hemoglobin holds onto oxygen more tightly and releases it less readily.
   • This effect helps to conserve oxygen in colder conditions, as metabolic demand is generally lower.
   • This causes the O₂-Hb dissociation curve to shift to the left.