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Environmental hazards and health
J M Beeley1, D J Smith, E H Oakley
1Institute of Naval Medicine, Alverstoke, UK.
British Medical Bulletin
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Travelers face health risks from altitude, heat, and cold. This guide covers acute mountain sickness, heat stroke, and hypothermia, detailing prevention and treatment strategies for travelers.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Medicine
- Travel Medicine
- Physiology
Background:
- Travelers encounter significant health hazards related to environmental extremes like altitude, heat, and cold.
- Altitude-induced illnesses range from acute mountain sickness to life-threatening edema.
- Heat illnesses result from elevated core temperatures and physiological responses, while cold environments risk hypothermia and local cold injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the health hazards faced by travelers due to environmental factors.
- To discuss the pathophysiology, prevention, and treatment of altitude, heat, and cold-related illnesses.
- To provide updated information on managing these travel-related health risks.
Main Methods:
- Review of physiological changes associated with environmental exposures.
- Discussion of precipitating factors for altitude illnesses.
- Outline of preventive measures and treatment choices for heat and cold injuries.
Main Results:
- Inadequate acclimatization and rapid ascent are key factors in altitude illness.
- Preventive measures for heat illness include acclimatization, hydration, and appropriate attire/activity.
- Cold injury prevention relies on proper clothing, equipment, and training.
Conclusions:
- Understanding physiological responses is crucial for managing environmental health risks.
- Effective prevention and treatment strategies exist for altitude, heat, and cold-related travel illnesses.
- Travelers should be aware of and prepared for environmental health hazards.