High-altitude medicine

ZONE OF KNOWLEDGE

At high altitudes, low humidity, increased physical exertion, and rapid breathing raise the risk of dehydration.

Additionally, breathing dry and cold air can irritate the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, drying them out, limiting their defensive functions, and increasing susceptibility to infections.

WHY DOES THIS HAPPEN?

The nose is responsible for warming and humidifying the air we breathe. When it is blocked – which often happens in the mountains – we breathe through our mouths, exposing the throat and larynx to cold, dry air.This significantly increases the risk of upper respiratory tract inflammation.

How to protect the respiratory tract:

➤ Regularly blow your nose; the thumb of the glove can be lined with soft material for comfort.

➤ Apply petroleum jelly to dry and cracked skin around the nose.

➤ Use nasal drops when a blockage occurs.

➤ Keep lozenges or throat tablets handy – use them preventively to moisturize the upper respiratory tract.Dry mucous membranes reduce protection against viruses and bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.

➤ Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf, buff, or neck gaiter to humidify the inhaled air. Wearing a mask or a dedicated face covering is a good way to protect yourself.

MAIN SYMPTOMS

The most important symptom of altitude laryngitis and pharyngitis is a tiring, dry cough.

Why this is important:

Upper respiratory infections at high altitude can severely hinder activity in the mountains and may take longer to treat than at sea level. Therefore, prevention is key.

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DO YOU WANT TO LEARNMORE?

If you want to better prepare yourself health-wise for trekking or a high-altitude expedition, you can find the extended version of the guide in the ebook"High-altitude Medicine in Practice – A Guide for Trekking and Expeditions" >>

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You can also learn practical knowledge about emergency procedures in the mountains in the online training"High-altitude First Aid" >>- designed for those planning trips to high altitudes.

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Meanwhile, you can find the detailed contents of a trekking first aid kit and precise instructions for preparing an expedition kit and personal rescue set in the ebook"Trekking First Aid Kit – A Complete Medical Guide" >>

ARE YOU PLANNINGA TREKORA HIGH-ALTITUDE EXPEDITION?

If you want to check whether your health condition allows you to safely participate in trekking or a high-altitude expedition, it is advisable to take advantage ofa medical consultation >>ora telemedicine expedition package >>

This way, you can assess health risks in advance, prepare properly for the trip, and increase safety while at high altitude.

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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