People traveling to high altitudes who usually live at sea level are more susceptible to AMS as compared to those who normally live at higher elevations. Those who have had recent exposure to high altitudes are less likely to develop AMS. It is more likely that individuals who have previously ascended to high altitudes without experiencing any symptoms of AMS will ascend to high altitudes again at later dates. This ensures that the pre-existing condition is not worsened by the ascent and prevents altitude sickness. Those with heart failure, for example, are not advised to spend time in the hypoxic conditions of high altitudes.Īlthough it is natural to believe that lung disease will rule out the possibility of high altitude travel, it is possible for individuals to travel to high altitudes following thorough evaluations and adequate prophylactic measures put in place before travel.

Those with pre-existing diseases should be cautious when considering ascents to high altitudes.

Although those who are already in good physical health are better able to adapt to these changes during rapid ascent, data suggest that their risk of AMS is similar to individuals in poorer physical health. This is because the ventilatory response that is usually sufficient at sea level to maintain good blood oxygen saturation is no longer possible due to the decreased oxygen levels present at high altitudes. Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year.Īt high altitudes, an individual’s ability to exercise decreases.

High altitude sickness