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[Mountain sickness or alpine climber's disease (author's transl)]
MMW, Munchener Medizinische Wochenschrift
|July 6, 1979
Summary
Mountain sickness symptoms range from mild to severe, often worsening at night and during rest at high altitudes. Reduced oxygen levels are a key factor, with treatment focusing on descent and oxygen therapy.
Area of Science:
- Altitude Medicine
- Physiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Mountain sickness encompasses a spectrum of illnesses, from mild discomfort to severe conditions.
- Observations in the Himalayas indicate that severe symptoms manifest nocturnally and during physical rest at altitude.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the clinical presentation and etiological factors of mountain sickness.
- To discuss current prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for altitude-related illnesses.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation in Himalayan regions.
- Review of etiological factors, including reduced oxygen partial pressure.
- Analysis of symptomatic and causal treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- Severe mountain sickness symptoms are frequently observed at night and during rest, even below the maximum altitude attained.
- The precise etiology remains under investigation, with reduced oxygen partial pressure identified as a primary factor.
- Current prophylactic measures are largely empirical, while scientific methods are under development.
Conclusions:
- Mountain sickness presents with variable severity, with nocturnal and resting symptoms being particularly serious.
- Understanding the role of reduced oxygen partial pressure is crucial for managing altitude sickness.
- Effective treatment involves symptomatic care, descent from altitude, and oxygen administration.