Altitude Sickness: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Altitude Sickness: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Travel Tips and Advice

Por: Huillca Expedition

Altitude sickness, also known as soroche or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when the body experiences a lack of oxygen due to decreased atmospheric pressure at high altitudes. This condition is directly related to the speed of ascent and the altitude reached, typically affecting individuals from 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) up to 7,500 meters (24,600 feet), also known as the "death zone."

Who is at Risk? Altitude sickness is more common among people under 50 years old and those who live at altitudes below 1,000 meters (3,280 feet). The primary cause is hypoxia, which results when the lungs cannot supply sufficient oxygen to the bloodstream due to reduced atmospheric pressure.

Main Causes of Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can have several causes. These are the most common:

  • Reduced Oxygen Availability: Higher altitudes have lower atmospheric pressure, reducing the oxygen levels available for mental and physical performance.
  • Dehydration: High altitudes lead to increased fluid loss.
  • Poor Acclimatization: Insufficient time for the body to adapt to altitude changes.
  • Rapid Ascent: Climbing too quickly without allowing time for acclimatization.
  • Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like hypertension, heart failure, chronic lung disease, or anemia can worsen with altitude sickness.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Symptoms typically appear within hours of reaching high altitudes and can range from mild to severe:

Mild Symptoms:

  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
  • Headache.
  • Fatigue or restlessness.
  • Chest discomfort.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Sleep disturbances (insomnia or drowsiness).

Severe Symptoms:

  • Pulmonary Edema: Non-cardiogenic fluid accumulation in the lungs.
    • Symptoms: Shortness of breath, coughing (with frothy pink secretions), chest pain, crackling or "bubbling" breath sounds, fever, and altered consciousness.
    • Immediate descent of at least 300–500 meters is critical for survival.
  • Cerebral Edema: Swelling in the brain tissue caused by hypoxia.
    • Symptoms: Severe headache, loss of coordination, confusion, hallucinations, and even coma.
    • Immediate descent and medical attention are essential.

Prevention Tips for Altitude Sickness

Preventing altitude sickness involves proper planning and acclimatization:

  1. Gradual Ascent: Limit ascents to no more than 500 meters (1,640 feet) per day above 2,500 meters.
  2. Rest Before High Altitudes: Sleep at intermediate altitudes (1,500–2,000 meters) before ascending further.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Drink 4–5 liters of water daily.
  4. Avoid Alcohol: Particularly in the first few days at altitude.
  5. Controlled Breathing: Practice deep, diaphragmatic breathing.
  6. Limit Salt Intake: Helps avoid fluid retention.
  7. Monitor Symptoms: Watch for signs of altitude sickness and respond promptly.
  8. Equip Properly: For expeditions, carry oxygen, appropriate medications, and acclimatization tools like a pressure bag.

Treatment of Altitude Sickness

Mild Cases:

  • Symptoms resolve within 1–3 days with rest and hydration.

Severe Cases:

  1. Descent: Move to a lower altitude (preferably 500–1,000 meters) immediately.
  2. Oxygen Therapy: Administer oxygen to alleviate hypoxia symptoms.
  3. Medications:
    • Acetazolamide (Diamox): To prevent and treat symptoms.
    • Ibuprofen/Paracetamol: For headaches.
    • Antiemetics (e.g., promethazine): To manage nausea.

FAQs About Altitude Sickness

1. Do I need a health check before traveling to high altitudes?
Yes, a medical examination is recommended, especially for individuals with conditions like heart or lung disease, anemia, or sleep apnea.

2. How long does altitude sickness last?
Mild symptoms typically last 24–48 hours, while severe cases require medical intervention.

3. Does coca tea help with altitude sickness?
Yes, coca tea (mate de coca) is widely used in the Andes to combat altitude sickness. It aids digestion and improves oxygen absorption.

4. What should I eat at high altitudes?
Consume energy-rich foods such as Andean grains (quinoa, kiwicha), fruits, and cereals. Staying hydrated is crucial.

5. Why does altitude cause headaches?
Reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes decrease blood oxygenation, causing headaches and other symptoms of hypoxia.

6. How should I breathe at high altitudes?
Practice deep, diaphragmatic breathing to improve oxygen intake.

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