High-Altitude Medical

HANDBOOK

Stroke at high altitude is rare, but the risk may increase due to the specific environmental conditions found in the mountains. For this reason, people planning high-altitude expeditions should consider medical consultation before departure, especially if they have neurological diseases or other risk factors.

RISK FACTORS FOR STROKE AT ALTITUDE

Factors that may increase the risk of stroke in the mountains include:

➤ cerebral venous thrombosis,

➤ pro-thrombotic conditions that increase blood clotting,

➤ high hematocrit, resulting from reduced plasma volume and increased red blood cell production during acclimatization,

➤ low ambient temperature, which can slow blood flow and potentially damage blood vessels,

➤ prolonged immobilization, for example during bad weather while staying in a mountain camp,

➤ dehydration,

➤ complications of High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which may lead to ischemic stroke or cerebral venous thrombosis.

SYMPTOMS OF STROKE AT ALTITUDE

Stroke symptoms in the mountains are similar to those at sea level. The most common include:

➤ sudden visual disturbances,

➤ difficulty speaking or understanding speech,

➤ sensory or motor deficits in the limbs,

➤ weakness or paralysis of the arm, leg, or one side of the face.

Any of these symptoms requires immediate action.

MANAGEMENT IN SUSPECTED STROKE

Hypoxia (low oxygen levels at altitude) and elevated hematocrit may increase the size of the ischemic area in the brain. Therefore, rapid response is essential.

If the diagnosis of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) is very likely:

➤ Administer aspirin – about ½ of a 300 mg tablet.

➤ Begin descent to a lower altitude as quickly as possible.

➤ Arrange evacuation and medical assistance as soon as possible.

SUMMARY

➤ High-altitude conditions may increase the risk of blood clot formation and stroke.

➤ Dehydration, cold exposure, high hematocrit, and prolonged immobilization are important risk factors.

➤ If neurological symptoms occur, immediate action, aspirin administration, and rapid descent are essential.

➤ Individuals with neurological conditions should consider medical consultation before undertaking a high-altitude trip.

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

-----

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.

-----

 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.

All rights reserved. Copying content and photos is prohibited. Information obligation before consenting to data processing.(see).

Also checkStore regulations >> Implementation: ColinMedia.eu >>