STROKE AT HEIGHT

Stroke in high-altitude conditions is rare; however, the risk of its occurrence may increase due to the specific conditions present at high altitudes. Therefore, individuals planning high-altitude expeditions should consider a medical consultation before departure, especially if they have neurological diseases or other risk factors. RISK FACTORS FOR STROKE AT ALTITUDE Factors that increase the risk of stroke in the mountains include: ➤ cerebral venous thrombosis, ➤ factors promoting blood clotting (prothrombotic), ➤ high hematocrit – a result of reduced plasma volume and increased production of red blood cells during acclimatization, ➤ low ambient temperature, which can slow blood flow and promote vessel damage, ➤ prolonged immobilization, e.g., during a weather breakdown at a camp, ➤ dehydration, ➤ complications of high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), which can lead to ischemic stroke or cerebral venous thrombosis. SYMPTOMS OF STROKE AT ALTITUDE Symptoms of stroke in the mountains are similar to those occurring at sea level. They most commonly include: ➤ sudden vision problems, ➤ difficulty speaking or understanding speech, ➤ sensory or motor disturbances in limbs, ➤ weakness or paralysis of an arm, leg, or half of the face. Each of these symptoms requires immediate action. PROCEDURE IN CASE OF SUSPECTED STROKE Hypoxia (lack of oxygen at altitude) and elevated hematocrit can increase the area of brain ischemia. Therefore, quick action is very important. If a diagnosis of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) is very likely: ➤ Administer aspirin – about ½ of a 300 mg tablet. ➤ Start descending to a lower altitude as quickly as possible. ➤ Arrange for transport and medical assistance as soon as possible. SUMMARY ➤ High-altitude conditions can increase the risk of clot formation and stroke. ➤ Dehydration, cold, high hematocrit, and immobilization are significant risk factors. ➤ In the case of neurological symptoms, immediate action is necessary, including administering aspirin and a rapid descent to a lower altitude. ➤ Anyone with neurological conditions should consider a medical consultation before the expedition. BIBLIOGRAPHY • 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 • R. W. Baumgartner et al., Going High with Preexisting Neurological Conditions, High Altitude Medicine & Biology, 2007 ------- WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you want to better prepare health-wise for trekking or a high-altitude expedition, you can find an expanded version of the guide in the ebook "High Altitude Medicine in Practice – A Guide for Trekking and Expeditions" >> ----- You can also learn practical knowledge about emergency procedures in the mountains in the online training "High Altitude First Aid" >> - designed for individuals planning trips to high altitudes. ----- Additionally, you can find the detailed contents of a travel first aid kit and a complete guide to preparing an expedition first aid kit and personal emergency kit in the ebook "Travel First Aid Kit – A Complete Medical Guide" >> ARE YOU PLANNING A TREK OR A HIGH-ALTITUDE EXPEDITION? If you want to check whether your health condition allows you to safely participate in a trek or high-altitude expedition, it is worth consulting a doctor >> or a telemedicine expedition package >> This way, you can assess health risks in advance, prepare appropriately for the trip, and increase safety while at altitude.

07 March 2026

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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