Acute mountain sickness is an illness that can affect snowmobilers, mountain climbers, hikers, skiers or travelers who climb too fast. It usually occurs when people rapidly reach a high altitude (typically above 8,000 feet). Grand Lake, CO, is at 8,300 feet and goes up from there.
Causes, Incidence, Risk Factors
Acute mountain sickness occurs from the combination of reduced air pressure and a lower concentration of oxygen at high altitude. Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening and can affect the nervous system, lungs, muscles and heart.
In most cases the symptoms are mild. In severe cases fluid collects in the lungs (pulmonary edema) causing extreme shortness of breath, which further reduces how much oxygen a person gets. Brain swelling may also occur (cerebral edema). This can cause confusion, coma and, if untreated, death.
The chance of getting acute mountain sickness increases the faster a person climbs into a high altitude. The severity of the symptoms also depends on this factor, as well as how much the person pushed (exerted) him or herself. Persons who normally live at or near sea level are more prone to acute mountain sickness.
Approximately 20 percent of people will develop mild symptoms at altitudes between 6,300 to 9,700 feet, but pulmonary and cerebral edema are extremely rare at these heights. However, above 14,000 feet, a majority of people will experience at least mild symptoms. Some people who stay at this height can develop pulmonary or cerebral edema.
Symptoms:
Symptoms generally associated with mild to moderate altitude illness include:
- Headache
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Rapid pulse (heart rate)
- Shortness of breath with exertion
Symptoms generally associated with more severe altitude illness include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath at rest
- Chest tightness or congestion
- Bluish discoloration of the skin
- Coughing up blood
- Inability to walk in a straight line or to walk at all
- Decreased consciousness or withdrawal from social interaction
- Confusion
- Gray or pale complexion (cerebral edema)
Treatment:
The main form of treatment for all forms of mountain sickness is to climb down (descend) to lower altitude as rapidly and safely as possible. Supplemental oxygen should also be given, if available.
People with severe mountain sickness may be admitted to a hospital.
Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a drug used to stimulate breathing and reduce mild symptoms of mountain sickness. This drug can cause increased urination. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink alcohol while taking this drug.
Prevention:
Education of mountain travelers before ascent is the key to prevention. Basic principles include: gradual ascent, stopping for a day or two of rest for each 2,000 feet above 8,000 feet; sleeping at a lower altitude when possible and learning how to recognize early symptoms so you can return to lower altitude before worsening symptoms occur.
Acetazolamide (Diamox) helps to speed acclimatization and reduce minor symptoms. Therapy should start one day before ascent and continue one to two days into the excursion. This measure is recommended for those making a rapid ascent to high altitudes.
Those susceptible to anemia (particularly women) should consult a doctor regarding an iron supplement to correct the condition before traveling in high altitudes. Anemic persons have reduced red blood cell count, and therefore, a lower amount of oxygen carried in the blood.
Drink sufficient fluids, avoid alcohol and eat regularly. Foods should be relatively high in carbohydrates.
People with underlying cardiac or pulmonary (lung) diseases should avoid high altitudes.
(ED-This information comes courtesy of the Grand Lake, CO, Fire Protection District.)