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Published on: October 5, 2018
Water turnover and core temperature on Mount Rainier.
Walter S Hailes1, John S Cuddy, Dustin S Slivka
1Center for Work Physiology and Exercise Metabolism, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA.
Wilderness & Environmental Medicine
|May 29, 2012
Summary
Climbing Mount Rainier significantly elevates hydration demands, leading to hypohydration in novice climbers. Despite this, participants maintained sufficient hydration for a safe summit and return.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Physiology
- Human Performance
- Mountaineering Science
Background:
- Mountaineering in austere environments presents significant logistical challenges, particularly regarding hydration.
- Balancing water needs with the physical burden of carrying water is critical for performance and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hydration kinetics and core temperature changes in novice climbers during a Mount Rainier ascent.
- To quantify water turnover and assess hydration status throughout the expedition.
Main Methods:
- Seven novice climbers were monitored using ingestible thermometer capsules for core temperature and deuterium administration for hydration kinetics.
- Measurements included core temperature, body mass, and urine specific gravity over a 43-hour study period.
Main Results:
- Mean core temperature remained stable around 37.6°C during the climb.
- Water turnover was high at 95.0 mL·kg⁻¹·24 h⁻¹.
- A trend for decreased body mass and a significant increase in urine specific gravity indicated hypohydration.
Conclusions:
- Mount Rainier climbing imposes substantial hydration demands, leading to hypohydration.
- Despite hypohydration, participants achieved a successful summit, demonstrating resilience in maintaining critical hydration levels.
- These findings highlight the importance of strategic hydration management for high-altitude mountaineering.
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