High-Altitude Medical

HANDBOOK

People with unstable neurological disorders during treatment or recovery (e.g., post-stroke) should not travel to high-altitude areas, as neurological deficits may worsen and hypoxia can interfere with the recovery process.

PLANNING AND PREPARATION

After a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), the body should not be exposed to high altitude for the first 90 days. After this period, an individual risk assessment by the treating physician is required.

Absolute contraindications for high-altitude exposure include individuals at high risk of recurrent stroke, such as:

➤ those with a history of hemorrhagic stroke due to vascular malformations,

➤ individuals with cerebral aneurysms or other vascular malformations.

At high altitude, blood pressure rises and capillaries become more fragile, increasing the risk of bleeding. Each patient must therefore be assessed individually.

PEOPLE WITH STABLE NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

For individuals whose stroke occurred several years ago and who are currently stable:

➤ Avoid physical exertion combined with climbing to high altitude,

➤ Use transportation (e.g., cable cars) when possible instead of hiking uphill.

The risk of recurrent stroke depends on the underlying cause:

➤ Individuals who had a stroke related to hypertension generally have a lower risk at altitude,

➤ Individuals with strokes caused by vascular malformations are at higher risk.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Every climber with a history of stroke should:

➤ Assess the risk of recurrent stroke with their neurologist.

➤ Consider therapy or prophylaxis for thrombosis if indicated.

➤ Avoid sudden physical exertion related to climbing at high altitude.

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

• R. W. Baumgartner et al., Going High with Preexisting Neurological Conditions, High Altitude Medicine & Biology, 2007; 8(2): 108–117

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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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