High-altitude medicine

ZONE OF KNOWLEDGE

Individuals with unstable neurological disorders during treatment or recovery (e.g., post-stroke condition) should not go to high altitudes, as neurological deficits may worsen, and hypoxia can disrupt the healing process and recovery.

PLANNING AND PREPARATION

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

Absolute contraindications for staying at high altitude apply to individuals with a high risk of recurrent stroke, e.g.:

➤ post-hemorrhagic stroke due to vascular malformation,

➤ individuals with brain aneurysms or other vascular malformations in the brain.

At high altitude, blood pressure increases, and capillaries become more prone to rupture, which increases the risk of bleeding. Therefore, each approach to the patient must be individualized.

PEOPLE WITH STABLE NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

Individuals who had a stroke several years ago and currently have a stable condition should:

➤ avoid exertion associated with climbing to high altitudes,

➤ use transportation (e.g., cable car) instead of walking when possible.

The risk of another stroke depends on the cause of the initial incident:

➤ individuals after a stroke related to hypertension usually have a lower risk at high altitude,

➤ individuals after a stroke caused by vascular malformations are at greater risk.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Every climber after a stroke should:

➤ Assess the risk of recurrent stroke together with a neurologist.

➤ Consider indications for therapy or anticoagulant prophylaxis.

➤ Avoid sudden physical exertion related to ascending to high altitudes.

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; 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 LEARNMORE?

If you want to better prepare your health for trekking or high-altitude expeditions, 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 individuals 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 first aid kit and personal rescue set in the ebook"Trekking First Aid Kit – Complete Medical Guide" >>

ARE YOU PLANNING A TREKOR 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 advisable to usea medical consultation >> ora telemedicine expedition package >>

This way, you can assess the health risks in advance, prepare appropriately 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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