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Acute mountain sickness prophylaxis: a high-altitude perspective
Stephen M DeLellis1, Steven E Anderson, James H Lynch
1Department of the Army, Womack Army Medical Center, Womack Family Medicine Clinic, Fort Bragg, NC 28310, USA. delelliss@aosa.army.mil
Current Sports Medicine Reports
|March 13, 2013
Summary
Acetazolamide prophylaxis effectively reduced symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in U.S. Army soldiers during high-altitude expeditions. This medication, combined with proper acclimatization and preparation, aids in preventing AMS.
Area of Science:
- Altitude Medicine
- Environmental Physiology
- Pharmacological Prophylaxis
Background:
- Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a prevalent altitude illness affecting individuals at elevations above 10,000 ft.
- Mitigating AMS risk is crucial for military personnel and adventurers operating in extreme environments.
- Acetazolamide is a commonly recommended medication for AMS prophylaxis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of recommended acetazolamide doses for AMS prophylaxis in U.S. Army Special Operations soldiers.
- To assess the impact of acetazolamide on AMS symptom incidence and summit success rates during high-altitude expeditions.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of acetazolamide prophylaxis in soldiers during six expeditions to elevations between 19,000 and 23,000 ft.
- Monitoring of AMS symptoms and summit success rates in participants receiving recommended acetazolamide doses.
- Review of existing literature on AMS prophylaxis strategies.
Main Results:
- Acetazolamide prophylaxis at recommended doses led to a reduction in AMS symptoms among soldiers.
- The use of acetazolamide appeared to increase the likelihood of successfully reaching expedition objectives (summits).
- No significant adverse events related to acetazolamide use were detailed, implying good tolerability.
Conclusions:
- Acetazolamide is an effective and acceptable option for preventing acute mountain sickness.
- Combining acetazolamide with gradual ascent, proper fitness, nutrition, clothing, and gear enhances AMS prevention.
- This prophylactic approach supports the operational readiness and success of high-altitude military missions.
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