Association between body water status and acute mountain sickness
Hannes Gatterer1, Maria Wille, Martin Faulhaber
1Department of Sport Science, Medical Section, University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
Plos One
|September 10, 2013
Summary
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is linked to reduced fluid loss and positive water balance. Avoiding excess fluid retention may help prevent AMS symptoms during high-altitude exposure.
Area of Science:
- Altitude physiology
- Human physiology
- Environmental medicine
Background:
- Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a common condition affecting individuals ascending to high altitudes.
- Understanding the physiological factors contributing to AMS is crucial for prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between body fluid variations and the development of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in adults.
- To identify fluid balance parameters that predict AMS development.
Main Methods:
- Forty-three healthy adults were exposed to simulated altitude hypoxia (4500 m) for 12 hours.
- Fluid intake, fluid loss, body weight, and plasma osmolality were measured.
- AMS severity was assessed using the Lake Louise Score (LLS).
Main Results:
- AMS incidence was 43%, with higher rates in females.
- Participants with AMS exhibited lower fluid losses and higher fluid retention compared to those without AMS.
- Positive net water balance and low fluid loss were significant predictors of AMS development.
Conclusions:
- A positive net water balance, primarily due to reduced fluid loss, is associated with AMS development within 12 hours of altitude exposure.
- Strategies aimed at preventing excessive fluid retention may be effective in mitigating AMS symptoms.
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