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High Altitude
Medicine
Definition of High Altitude
- High Altitude: 1500 - 3500 m (5000 - 11500 ft)
- Very High Altitude: 3500 - 5500 m (11500 - 18000 ft)
- Extreme Altitude: above 5500 m
The Body’s reaction to altitude
Certain normal physiologic changes occur in every person who goes to
altitude:
- Hyperventilation (breathing faster, deeper, or both)
- Shortness of breath during exertion
- Changed breathing pattern at night
- Awakening frequently at night
- Increased urination
As one ascends through the atmosphere, every breath contains fewer and
fewer molecules of oxygen. One must work harder to obtain oxygen, by
breathing faster and deeper. This is particularly noticeable with
exertion, such as walking uphill. Being out of breath with exertion is
normal, as long as the sensation of shortness of breath resolves rapidly
with rest. The increase in breathing is critical. It is therefore
important to avoid anything that will decrease breathing, e.g. alcohol
and certain drugs. Despite the increased breathing, attaining normal
blood levels of oxygen is not possible at high altitude.Credit to
Dr. Tom Dietz of the ISMM for the original document edited to fit this
webpage.
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