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Mountain climbers are at risk of developing altitude sickness (also known as mountain sickness), which may be harmful or even fatal if its onset is ignored. It is caused by gaining altitude too rapidly, which doesn't allow the body enough time to adjust to reduced oxygen and changes in air pressure, and causes hypobaric hypoxia (a lack of oxygen reaching the tissues of the body). In severe cases, fluid builds up within the lungs, brain or both. At intermediate altitude (1,500 to 2,500 metres above sea level) altitude illness is unlikely, though possible. Acute altitude sickness arises after at least four hours spent at an altitude above 2,000 m. Ascending to heights greater than 2,500 m can trigger a range of symptoms including headache and vomiting. Men are at greater risk of altitude sickness than women, for reasons unknown. It is important to remember that being young and fit doesn't reduce your risk, and just because you haven't experienced altitude sickness in the past, doesn't mean you are immune to the condition during future climbs. The only sure method of prevention is to take plenty of time to ascend. Symptoms of altitude sickness
Severe altitude sicknessThere are two main types of severe altitude sickness: high altitude pulmonary oedema (fluid within the lungs) and high altitude cerebral oedema (fluid within the brain). In most cases, both conditions occur at the same time. A person with pulmonary oedema may drown if their lungs fill with too much fluid. Symptoms of severe altitude sickness include:
Prevention of altitude sicknessThe best way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend slowly. Once you are more than 3,000 m above sea level, only advance 300 m or less per day. Be sure to take an extra day of rest and acclimatisation for every subsequent 1,000 m. Other suggestions for preventing altitude sickness include:
First aid for altitude sicknessUse the 'buddy system', because you will most likely refuse to acknowledge your own symptoms of altitude sickness. It is not unusual for affected climbers to stubbornly refuse to descend. If one of your party is showing the signs of altitude sickness, first aid suggestions include:
Treating altitude sickness with hyperbaric oxygen therapyHyperbaric oxygen therapy uses specially designed chambers or rooms that can withstand high pressures. Air at sea level contains 21 per cent oxygen, while hyperbaric oxygen therapy can deliver up to 100 per cent pure oxygen. This form of therapy floods the body with oxygen and relieves the symptoms of altitude sickness. A portable oxygen cylinder enables oxygen to be administered via a facemask or hood. Never use oxygen therapy or altitude sickness medications to continue an ascent once symptoms have occurred. The result can be fatal. Where to get helpThings to remember
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This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
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