High-Altitude Medical

HANDBOOK

Some people sleep soundly in the mountains, like the dead, but unfortunately this is not the rule. Usually, during the first few days at high altitude, we toss and turn, unable to fall asleep – counting sheep… and llamas.

Even when sleep comes, it is often shallow and interrupted, with awakenings caused by, for example, a strong urge to urinate or periodic breathing.

PERIODIC BREATHING

Periodic breathing consists of short pauses in breathing, lasting several seconds, that occur after periods of accelerated breathing. This is a common phenomenon:

➤ From 2800 m – occurs in many people

➤ Above 5000 m – occurs in almost everyone

Note: If considering nighttime resuscitation of a partner using mouth-to-mouth, pause and assess the situation carefully, unless you follow the rule “any excuse is good enough.”

WHY IS SLEEP DISTURBED?

The main cause is low oxygen levels at high altitude. Sleep may also be disturbed by:

➤ Hard or uneven sleeping surfaces

➤ Cold and cramped conditions in the tent

➤ Snoring companions

With better acclimatization, sleep becomes deeper and more restorative.

Practical Tips

➤ Invest in a warm, comfortable sleeping bag

➤ Use a comfortable sleeping mat or Therm-a-Rest

➤ Earplugs can be very helpful

➤ Avoid an evening glass of wine or a cup of coffee

Sleep-Aiding Medications

➤ Acetazolamide (Diuramid) – 1 tablet at night, improves sleep quality, regulates breathing, effective for periodic breathing

➤ Zolpidem – tested at high altitude, does not cause breathing problems or excessive daytime sleepiness

- Do not use before a summit attempt

- Do not use in acute high-altitude illness (HAPE/HACE)

If insomnia persists for several nights – descend to a lower altitude and rest properly.

Warning: If you suffer from sleep apnea at low altitude, consult a doctor before the expedition.

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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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