Prepare for travel to high altitudes.
Climbing, backpacking or camping at high altitudes can be dangerous and even deadly. While the term "high altitude" is subjective, most experts agree that dangerous health conditions usually occur above about 8,000 to 10,000 feet. Higher elevations have lower oxygen levels, which can cause headaches, fatigue and other symptoms. Altitude sickness is the common term that refers to these symptoms, which are especially caused during strenuous outdoor activities or climbing to high elevations quickly. Certain serious conditions and ailments can develop from these symptoms that may require immediate medical care.
Acute Mountain Sickness
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can occur at high altitudes, generally above 10,000 feet. While mild symptoms of AMS are usually common in most people, symptoms lasting longer than two to four days might indicate complications. AMS can cause shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, nausea and extreme fatigue. Climbers or hikers should monitor the severity of symptoms before continuing to travel higher in elevation.
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) occurs when fluid leakage causes the brain to swell. HACE typically occurs in climbers or hikers who have been exposed to high altitudes for longer than a week, but may occur earlier in some. Symptoms may include disorientation, muscle weakness, headaches, hallucinations and can even precipitate a coma. In serious cases, death can occur if the person is not taken to lower elevations immediately.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) is similar to HACE but refers to fluid and swelling in the lungs. This condition can prevent the climber from getting enough oxygen. Symptoms of HAPE include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, fatigue, confusion or irrational behavior. Hikers should check for symptoms of HAPE by monitoring the recovery time after exertion, which should be similar to recovery time after exertion in lower altitudes. Without proper medical care, a person suffering HAPE is at risk for brain damage and death.
Cheyne-Stokes Respirations
Cheyne-Strokes Respirations refer to a breathing pattern that can occur in high altitudes. Many people who travel above 10,000 feet experience this periodic breathing cycle that can exhaust climbers and hikers by disturbing sleep patterns. Symptoms include a feeling of suffocation, short and intermittent breaths or restlessness. While Cheyne-Strokes Respirations are considered normal at high altitudes, people with asthma or other breathing problems could be at more risk for oxygen depletion, fatigue and symptoms of AMS.
Tags: high altitudes, High Altitude, above feet, Acute Mountain, Acute Mountain Sickness, after exertion, Altitude Cerebral