MOUNTAINEERING INFORMATION ARTICLES

Acclimatization: Adjusting to Higher Altitudes

Don’t you just enjoy that spectacular view from the summit, taking pleasure in the stillness and hushed environment far above the ground? But take note that there are risks in ascending to such high altitudes, and the mountaineer that you are must learn to understand such risks that are involved. Taking a few precautions can prevent altitude illnesses, and acclimatization is a slow process that must be taken to allow the body to adjust to the decreasing oxygen level at such high alitudes.

One of the main causes of alitude illnesses is going high at such a fast rate, with high altitude meaning a level of above 8,000 feet or 2,400 meters. Immediate effects would include hyperventilation, headaches and nausea, increase in heart rate, and fluid loss. It is best to be cautious when one has not been in high altitude before, as the body needs a certain amount of time before it can operate with decreased levels of oxygen. Each person has different susceptabilities to mountain sickness, and climbers ascending in groups must consider each person’s acclimitization needs.

So how do you prevent mountain sickness? Don’t over-exert that climb. Take an aclimeter with you to know the elevation of your location. It is safe to bet that a thousand feet ascent per day is dependable gain. If you go above 10,000 feet, remember to Climb High and Sleep Low. A climber can climb more than a thousand feet each day but must come down and sleep at a lower altitude to allow his body to acclimatize.

If you can’t prevent mountain illness, certain measures can be taken to adjust to the altitude levels. Climbing down is the main treatment for all forms of mountain sickness. Drinking plenty of fluids also help in acclimatization as it restores lost liquids brought about by the heavy breathing in such thin air. Dosages of Acetazolamide may also help climbers speed up acclimatization, as it helps minimize symptoms caused by deprivation of oxygen.

Remember to take note of your elevation when trying to overcome that mountain. Ignoring that mountain sickness may lead to life-threatening edema which may cause your life.

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