Introduction to Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness (AS) or acute mountain sickness, is a potential problem for people who travel each year to altitudes exceeding 8,000 feet. It is rare a problem for 300 million people in the world who live at high altitudes, due to the phenomenon of acclimatization. Proper acclimatization can prevent Altitude sickness .
While one study states that virtually all people traveling to an altitude above one mile (5,280 feet) will experience some symptoms of Altitude sickness .1 According to the other study, only 25% of those who travel above 8,500 feet will develop Altitude sickness symptoms.2 Yet another study states that Altitude sickness is predominantly seen in those who spend more than 8 h at an elevation above 10,000 feet.3 However, all agree that the incidence and severity of Altitude sickness are directly proportional to the altitude.
Causes of Altitude Sickness
Causes of Altitude sickness
Hypoxia or insufficient oxygen to the tissues is the root cause of Altitude sickness (AS). The absolute percentage of oxygen in the air is the same, but as altitude increases, the number of molecules in the specific volume of air
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Symptoms of Altitude sickness
Simple Altitude sickness (AS) is usually presented as the most minor problem due to altitude. The more severe problems are high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
Management of Altitude Sickness
Management of Altitude Sickness
Partners should observe each other for potential danger signs, such as severe headache, persistent coughing, skipping meals, acting in an antisocial manner, frequent stumbling or losing footing, refusing to drink, and
Altitude Sickness and Medical Conditions
The following conditions do not worsen the risk of Altitude sickness
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- Mild emphysema
- Coronary artery disease
- Chronic illnesses, such as cardiac and pulmonary conditions if well-controlled
Problems do arise in patients with:
- Severe emphysema
- COPD, and other lung diseases
- Sickle cell anemia
Prevention of Altitude Sickness
- A slow ascent is essential.
- ‘Climb high, sleep low’: Travelers should spend two nights at the same altitude every three days, and sleep at least 460 feet lower than the highest altitude climbed during the day.
- Travelers should avoid alcohol, sedatives, smoking and excess stress.
- Travelers should increase their fluid intake for the first several days.
- High-carbohydrate diets should be maintained, as carbohydrates allow the body to use oxygen more efficiently at higher altitudes.
- Fat and sodium intake should be limited.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 01, 2011