High-Altitude Medical

HANDBOOK

People with COPD may already be hypoxic at sea level, so they can develop problems with oxygenation at high altitude faster than healthy individuals.

PLANNING AND PREPARATION

Before traveling to altitude, it is important to consult a physician to assess the risks associated with high-altitude exposure.

People with COPD often have elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood (hypercapnia), which impairs the function of the carotid bodies and reduces the effectiveness of ventilatory responses to hypoxia. At high altitude, this may further worsen hypoxemia.

Additional factors that can increase the risk of hypoxemia in COPD patients:

➤ Breathing cold air – causes pulmonary vasoconstriction.

➤ Smoking – increases carboxyhemoglobin levels in the blood, reducing oxygen transport.

Potential health problems for COPD patients at altitude include:

➤ Severe hypoxemia,

➤ Pulmonary hypertension,

➤ Impaired ventilatory control,

➤ Sleep disturbances,

➤ Weakness of respiratory muscles.

GUIDELINES FOR TRAVELING TO ALTITUDE

➤ People with mild to moderate COPD may travel to low altitudes (up to 2000 m / 6,600 ft).

➤ Medical assessment should be individualized.

➤ Gradual ascent and adequate hydration are recommended to ensure that airway secretions remain thin and easier to clear.

➤ Strenuous exercise at altitude is strictly contraindicated.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

➤ High-altitude travel is not recommended for people with severe COPD.

➤ Individuals who experience dyspnea at rest or with minimal exertion at sea level should also avoid high-altitude exposure.

REFERENCES

• Travel at High Altitude –www.medex.org.uk

• K. Mieske et al., Journeys to High Altitude—Risks and Recommendations for Travelers with Preexisting Medical Conditions, Journal of Travel Medicine, 2010; 17(1): 48–62

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WANT TO LEARN MORE?

If you want to better prepare your health for trekking or a high-altitude expeditions, check out the expanded guide in the ebook "High-Altitude Medicine for Trekkers and Climbers" >>

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Gain practical skills for handling emergencies in the mountains through our online training "High-Altitude First Aid" >> - prepared for those planning trips to high altitudes.

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 For a detailed list of what to include in your expedition medical kit and step-by-step instructions for assembling your personal first aid set, see the ebook "High-Altitude Expedition Medical Kit Guide" >>

PLANNING A TREK OR A HIGH-ALTITUDE EXPEDITION?

If you would like to check whether your health condition allows you to safely participate in a trek or high-altitude expedition, consider booking a medical consultation >> or using a telemedical expedition package >>

This allows you to assess potential health risks in advance, prepare properly fot altitude, and increase your safety during the expedition.

The company was established in 2004. The goal of MedEverest is education in the field of mountain medicine and the dangers of high altitudes. I deal with all medical aspects of staying at high altitude. I organize medical support for trekking and high-altitude expeditions.

Specialist Medical Practice Medeverest Robert Szymczak based in Gdańsk (80-360), at ul. Bolesława Krzywoustego 19F, NIP: 5841943576, REGON: 220148318.

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