Among those who travel to areas with high altitude, there is high risk for altitude sickness. The condition is triggered by low oxygen levels in the air at altitudes higher than 2,500 meters in which the body could not properly adjust to less oxygen.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Remember that being young or physically fit will not lessen the risk. If altitude sickness develops, it usually depends on the following:
- Height above the sea level
- Whether the individual had issues involving the lungs and heart
- Time spent to make the ascent
Indications of altitude sickness
If an individual develops altitude sickness, he/she will start to feel dizzy and weak along with a headache and feeling nauseous. The sensation is comparable to a hangover.
The condition can affect the lungs which is called as high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). This condition can cause shortness of breath, rapid heart rate and coughing. In severe cases, the lips turn bluish in color.
Altitude sickness can also cause the brain to become swollen with fluid which is called high altitude cerebral edema (HACE). This causes confusion, irritability and erratic behavior.
It is important to note that altitude sickness can be intense during the night and persist for days even if the individual remains in the same level of altitude.
Management
If an individual develops altitude sickness, he/she must stay at the same altitude or move to an area with lower altitude until the symptoms settle. Increased intake of fluids, rest and pain medications can help improve the symptoms. Do not continue to ascend.
Avoid alcoholic beverages or sedatives since these can disrupt with the ability of the body to adapt to high altitudes.
In case the individual has indications of altitude sickness, it can affect the lungs or the brain. Descend to a lower area as soon as possible. In addition, breathing oxygen via a tank is beneficial.
Preventive measures
Among those who are planning to travel to areas with high altitude, a doctor should be consulted about medications that help with acclimatization especially if he/she experienced the condition before.
The risk is drastically reduced with the following:
- Avoid rapid ascent from sea level.
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages at high altitudes
- If above 3,000 meters is reached, ascend not more than 500 meters in a day.
- Spend the night below the day’s highest altitude
- Avoid engaging in strenuous exercise before the body is given time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels.
Remember that those who have medical conditions involving the heart, lungs or circulation are at higher risk for developing altitude sickness.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on altitude sickness is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage environmental emergencies including altitude sickness by taking a standard first aid course with Saskatoon First Aid.