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Li X, Zhang J, Liu G, Wu G, Wang R, Zhang J. High altitude hypoxia and oxidative stress: The new hope brought by free radical scavengers. Life Sci 2024; 336:122319. [PMID: 38035993 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Various strategies can be employed to prevent and manage altitude illnesses, including habituation, oxygenation, nutritional support, and medication. Nevertheless, the utilization of drugs for the prevention and treatment of hypoxia is accompanied by certain adverse effects. Consequently, the quest for medications that exhibit minimal side effects while demonstrating high efficacy remains a prominent area of research. In this context, it is noteworthy that free radical scavengers exhibit remarkable anti-hypoxia activity. These scavengers effectively eliminate excessive free radicals and mitigate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby safeguarding the body against oxidative damage induced by plateau hypoxia. In this review, we aim to elucidate the pathogenesis of plateau diseases that are triggered by hypoxia-induced oxidative stress at high altitudes. Additionally, we present a range of free radical scavengers as potential therapeutic and preventive approaches to mitigate the occurrence of common diseases associated with hypoxia at high altitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefeng Li
- College of Life Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Juanhong Zhang
- College of Life Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China; School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Guoan Liu
- College of Life Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Guofan Wu
- College of Life Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China.
| | - Rong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; Key Laboratory for Prevention and Remediation of Plateau Environmental Damage, 940th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of CPLA, Lanzhou 730050, China.
| | - Junmin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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Derstine M, Jean D, Beidleman BA, Pichler Hefti J, Hillebrandt D, Horakova L, Kriemler S, Mateikaitė-Pipirienė K, Paal P, Rosier AJ, Andjelkovic M, Keyes LE. Acute Mountain Sickness and High Altitude Cerebral Edema in Women: A Scoping Review-UIAA Medical Commission Recommendations. High Alt Med Biol 2023; 24:259-267. [PMID: 37870579 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2023.0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Derstine, Mia, Dominique Jean, Beth A. Beidleman, Jacqueline Pichler Hefti, David Hillebrandt, Lenka Horakova, Susi Kriemler, Kasté Mateikaité-Pipiriené, Peter Paal, Alison Rosier, Marija Andjelkovic, and Linda E. Keyes. Acute mountain sickness and high altitude cerebral edema in women: A scoping review-UIAA Medical Commission recommendations. High Alt Med Biol. 24:259-267, 2023. Background: Acute mountain sickness (AMS) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) are illnesses associated with rapid ascent to altitudes over 2,500 m in unacclimatized lowlanders. The aim of this scoping review is to summarize the current knowledge on sex differences in the epidemiology, pathophysiology, symptomatology, and treatment of AMS and HACE, especially in women. Methods and Results: The UIAA Medical Commission convened an international author team to review women's health issues at high altitude and to publish updated recommendations. Pertinent literature from PubMed and Cochrane was identified by keyword search combinations (including AMS, HACE, and high altitude), with additional publications found by hand search. The primary search focus was for articles assessing lowland women sojourning at high altitude. Results: The literature search yielded 7,165 articles, 37 of which were ultimately included. The majority of publications included did not find women at increased risk for AMS or HACE. There was extremely limited sex-specific data on risk factors or treatment. Conclusions: There is a limited amount of data on female-specific findings regarding AMS and HACE, with most publications addressing only prevalence or incidence with regard to sex. As such, general prevention and treatment strategies for AMS and HACE should be used regardless of sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Derstine
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Dominique Jean
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Paediatrics, Infectious Diseases and Altitude Medicine, Grenoble, France
| | - Beth A Beidleman
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Military Performance Division, Natick, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - David Hillebrandt
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- General Medical Practitioner, Holsworthy, United Kingdom
| | - Lenka Horakova
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Technology, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Susi Kriemler
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kastė Mateikaitė-Pipirienė
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Diaverum Clinics, Elektrėnai Division, Lithuania
| | - Peter Paal
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, St. John of God Hospital, Paracelesus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alison J Rosier
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marija Andjelkovic
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Pharmacy, Singidunum University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Linda E Keyes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Berger MM, Hüsing A, Niessen N, Schiefer LM, Schneider M, Bärtsch P, Jöckel KH. Prevalence and knowledge about acute mountain sickness in the Western Alps. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291060. [PMID: 37708123 PMCID: PMC10501682 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in 1370 mountaineers at four different altitudes in the Western Alps. We also examined the influence of potential risk factors and the knowledge about AMS on its prevalence. METHODS In this observational cross-sectional study AMS was assessed on the day of ascent by the Lake Louise score (LLS, cut-off ≥3, version 2018) and the AMS-Cerebral (AMS-C) score of the environmental symptom questionnaire (cut-off ≥0,70). The latter was also obtained in the next morning. Knowledge regarding AMS and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and the potential risk factors for AMS were evaluated by questionnaires. RESULTS On the day of ascent, the prevalence of AMS assessed by the LLS and AMS-C score was 5.8 and 3.9% at 2850 m, 2.1 and 3.1% at 3050 m, 14.8 and 10.1% at 3650 m, and 21.9 and 15% at 4559 m, respectively. The AMS prevalence increased overnight from 10.1 to 14.5% and from 15 to 25.2% at 3650 m and 4559 m, respectively, and was unchanged at 2850 m and 3050 m. A history of AMS, higher altitude, lower degree of pre-acclimatization, and younger age were identified as risk factors for developing AMS. Slow ascent was weakly associated with AMS prevalence, and sex and knowledge about AMS and HACE were indistinct. CONCLUSION AMS is common at altitudes ≥ 3650 m and better knowledge about AMS and HACE was not associated with less AMS in mountaineers with on average little knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Moritz Berger
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Anika Hüsing
- Institute of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Nicolai Niessen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
| | | | - Michael Schneider
- Institute for Health Services Research and Clinical Epidemiology, Philipps-Universitaet Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Peter Bärtsch
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karl-Heinz Jöckel
- Institute of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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Gianfredi V, Albano L, Basnyat B, Ferrara P. Does age have an impact on acute mountain sickness? A systematic review. J Travel Med 2020; 27:5693886. [PMID: 31897482 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taz104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is the most common form of illness at high altitude; however, it is still unclear whether age is a protective factor or a risk factor for the development of AMS in travellers. In recent decades, the number of travellers aged 60 years or older is increasing. Thus, the care of older travellers is a long-standing issue in travel medicine. This study aims to systematically review the current state of knowledge related to the effect of old age on the risk of AMS. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used, and the following databases were consulted: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Europe PubMed Central (EuropePMC), World Health Organization Library Database (WHOLIS) and Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS). The search yielded a total of 532 articles, of which 25 met the inclusion criteria, corresponding to 26 reports. Although the approaches, methods and quality were heterogeneous among the included studies, 12 reported a negative correlation between AMS prevalence and age, 11 detected no relationship and three papers indicated that the age of AMS subjects was significantly higher than controls. Despite these differences, old age does not seem to be a contraindication for travelling at high altitude. Thus, the presented synthesis will be useful for health professionals in travel medicine to better tailor their appropriate care for older adults who travel to destinations at high altitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Gianfredi
- Post-graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Luciana Albano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Buddha Basnyat
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Pietro Ferrara
- Research Center on Public Health, University of Milan - Bicocca, Monza, Italy
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Duke CB, Sallade TD, Starling J, Pant S, Sheets A, McElwee MK, Young DS, Taylor RA, Keyes LE. Hypertension and Acute Mountain Sickness in Himalayan Trekkers in Nepal: An Observational Cohort Study. Wilderness Environ Med 2020; 31:157-164. [PMID: 32205041 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A history of preexisting hypertension is common in people participating in mountain activities; however, the relationship between blood pressure (BP), preexisting hypertension, and acute mountain sickness (AMS) is not well studied. We sought to determine these relationships among trekkers in the Everest region of Nepal. METHODS This was a prospective observational cohort study of a convenience sample of adult, nonpregnant volunteers trekking in the Everest Base Camp region in Nepal. We recorded Lake Louise Scores for AMS and measured BP at 2860 m, 3400 m, and 4300 m. The primary outcome was AMS. RESULTS A total of 672 trekkers (including 60 with history of preexisting hypertension) were enrolled at 2860 m. We retained 529 at 3400 m and 363 at 4300 m. At 3400 m, 11% of participants had AMS, and 13% had AMS at 4300 m. We found no relationship between AMS and measured BP values (P>0.05), nor was there any relation of BP to AMS severity as measured by higher Lake Louise Scores (P>0.05). Preexisting hypertension (odds ratio [OR] 0.16; 95% CI 0.025-0.57), male sex (OR 0.59; 95% CI 0.37-0.96), and increased SpO2 (OR 0.93; 95% CI 0.87-0.98) were associated with reduced rates of AMS in multivariate analyses adjusting for known risk factors for AMS. CONCLUSIONS AMS is common in trekkers in Nepal, even at 3400 m. There is no relationship between measured BP and AMS. However, a medical history of hypertension may be associated with a lower risk of AMS. More work is needed to confirm this novel finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles B Duke
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - T Douglas Sallade
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA
| | - Jennifer Starling
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado and Colorado Permanente Medical Group, Saint Joseph Hospital, Denver, CO
| | - Sushil Pant
- Mountain Medicine Society of Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Matthew K McElwee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - David S Young
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | | | - Linda E Keyes
- University of Colorado Emergency Medicine and Boulder Emergency Physicians, Boulder, CO.
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Sex-based differences in the prevalence of acute mountain sickness: a meta-analysis. Mil Med Res 2019; 6:38. [PMID: 31813379 PMCID: PMC6900850 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-019-0228-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When lowlanders rapidly ascend to altitudes > 2500 m, they may develop acute mountain sickness (AMS). The individual susceptibility, ascending velocity, time spent at altitude, activity levels and altitude reached are considered risk factors for AMS. However, it is not clear whether sex is a risk factor. The results have been inconclusive. We conducted a meta-analysis to test whether there were sex-based differences in the prevalence of AMS using Lake Louise Scoring System. METHODS Systematic searches were performed in August 2019 in EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science for prospective studies with AMS data for men and women. The titles and abstracts were independently checked in the primary screening step, and the selected full-text articles were independently assessed in the secondary screening step by the two authors (YPH and JLW) based on pre-defined inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was performed using by the STATA 14.1 software program. A random-effects model was employed. RESULTS Eighteen eligible prospective studies were included. A total of 7669 participants (2639 [34.4%] women) were tested. The results showed that there was a statistically significant higher prevalence rate of AMS in women than in men (RR = 1.24, 95%CI 1.09-1.41), regardless of age or race. Howerver, the heterogeneity was significant in the analysis (Tau2 = 0.0403, Chi2 = 50.15, df = 17; I2 = 66.1%, P = 0.000), it was main caused by different numbers of subjects among the studies (coefficient = - 2.17, P = 0.049). Besides, the results showed that there was no evidence of significant publication bias in the combined studies on the basis of Egger's test (bias coefficient = 1.48, P = 0.052) and Begg's test (P = 0.130). CONCLUSIONS According to this study, the statistically significant finding emerging from this study was that women have a higher prevalence of AMS. However, the authors could not exclude studies where patients were on acetazolamide. Our analysis provided a direction for future studies of the relationship of sex and the risk of AMS, such as the pathological mechanism and prevention research.
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West BH, Fleming RG, Al Hemyari B, Banankhah P, Meyer K, Rozier LH, Murphy LS, Coluzzi AC, Rusheen JL, Kumar P, Elashoff D, Tobis JM. Relation of Patent Foramen Ovale to Acute Mountain Sickness. Am J Cardiol 2019; 123:2022-2025. [PMID: 30979412 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2019.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Over 50% of patients who rapidly ascend to extreme altitudes develop various symptoms known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), which rarely can be life threatening. It is unclear why some patients are more susceptible to AMS than others. Our objective was to determine whether patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a risk factor for AMS. Subjects who had hiked to altitudes above 10,000' (∼3,000 meters) on the John Muir Trail in California were recruited. Participants completed a questionnaire and 2-physician adjudication was performed in regard to AMS status. A transcranial Doppler with agitated saline contrast injection was performed to evaluate the presence or absence of PFO. The primary outcome was the development of AMS. From 2016 to 2018, 137 hikers were recruited into the study. There was a higher prevalence of PFO in hikers with AMS 15 of 24 (63%) compared with hikers without AMS 44 of 113 (39%); p = 0.034. In the multivariate model, the presence of a PFO significantly increased the risk for developing AMS: odds ratio 4.15, 95% confidence intervals 1.14 to 15.05; p = 0.030. In conclusion, hikers with a PFO had significantly higher risk of developing AMS relative to hikers without a PFO. Clinicians should consider PFO a risk factor in patients who plan to hike to high altitudes.
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Wu Y, Zhang C, Chen Y, Luo YJ. Association between acute mountain sickness (AMS) and age: a meta-analysis. Mil Med Res 2018; 5:14. [PMID: 29747689 PMCID: PMC5946480 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-018-0161-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a potentially lethal condition caused by acute hypoxia after ascending to altitudes higher than 2500 m in a short time. The main symptom of AMS is headache. Numerous risk factors of AMS have been examined, including gender, obesity, ascent rate, age and individual susceptibility. In previous studies, age was considered a predisposing factor for AMS. However, different opinions have been raised in recent years. To clarify the association between AMS and age, we conducted this meta-analysis. METHODS We obtained observational studies that explored risk factors for AMS by searching PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI), the Wanfang database and CQVIP for articles published before March 2017. The studies included were required to provide the mean age and its standard deviation for subjects with and without AMS, the maximum altitude attained and the mode of ascent. The Lake Louse Score (LLS) or the Chinese AMS score (CAS) was used to judge the severity of AMS symptoms and incidence. Studies were pooled for the analysis by using a random effects model in RevMan 5.0. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses were conducted to identify sources of heterogeneity using Stata 14.2 and RevMan 5.0. RESULTS In total, 17 studies were included, and the overall number of subjects with and without AMS was 1810 and 3014, respectively. The age ranged from 10 to 76 years. Analysis of the 17 included studies showed that age was not associated with AMS (mean difference (MD) = 0.10; 95% CI: -0.38-0.58; P = 0.69). CONCLUSION This meta-analysis suggests that there is no association between age and the risk of AMS. Race, age, and ascent mode are common sources of heterogeneity, which may provide an analytical orientation for future heterogeneity analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wu
- Department of Military Medical Geography, Army Medical Service Training Base, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.,Battalion 5 of Cadet Brigade, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Military Medical Geography, Army Medical Service Training Base, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Military Medical Geography, Army Medical Service Training Base, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yong-Jun Luo
- Department of Military Medical Geography, Army Medical Service Training Base, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China. .,Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environmental Medicine of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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Muza SR. Wearable physiological sensors and real-time algorithms for detection of acute mountain sickness. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2018; 124:557-563. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00367.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This is a minireview of potential wearable physiological sensors and algorithms (process and equations) for detection of acute mountain sickness (AMS). Given the emerging status of this effort, the focus of the review is on the current clinical assessment of AMS, known risk factors (environmental, demographic, and physiological), and current understanding of AMS pathophysiology. Studies that have examined a range of physiological variables to develop AMS prediction and/or detection algorithms are reviewed to provide insight and potential technological roadmaps for future development of real-time physiological sensors and algorithms to detect AMS. Given the lack of signs and nonspecific symptoms associated with AMS, development of wearable physiological sensors and embedded algorithms to predict in the near term or detect established AMS will be challenging. Prior work using [Formula: see text], HR, or HRv has not provided the sensitivity and specificity for useful application to predict or detect AMS. Rather than using spot checks as most prior studies have, wearable systems that continuously measure SpO2 and HR are commercially available. Employing other statistical modeling approaches such as general linear and logistic mixed models or time series analysis to these continuously measured variables is the most promising approach for developing algorithms that are sensitive and specific for physiological prediction or detection of AMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen R. Muza
- Strategic Science Management Office, US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts
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Dobrosielski DA, Guadagno M, Phan P. The Association between Regional Fat Distribution and Acute Mountain Sickness in Young Hikers. Sports Med Int Open 2017; 1:E74-E79. [PMID: 30539089 PMCID: PMC6226067 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-101371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) can occur upon rapid ascent from low to high altitude. This study examined the association between central adiposity and the development of AMS in young adults during a high-altitude hike. Total and regional body fat were measured at sea level using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Within 24 h of arriving in Cusco, Peru (3 400 meters) participants embarked on a 14-mile hike across the Andes Mountain range in southern Peru. Symptoms of AMS were assessed using the Lake Louise score at 24 h (3 400 meters), 29 h (4 100 meters), 34 h (3 800 meters) and 53 h (2 900 meters). 14 participants (mean age 21±2 years; women: 11, men: 3) completed the study. The number of participants exhibiting at least mild AMS increased from 6 (54%) at 3 400 meters to 9 (64%) at 3 800 meters. A higher AMS score at 4 100 meters was associated with greater android (r=0.72, p<0.01), trunk (r=0.73, p<0.01) and total body (r=0.71, p<0.01) fat, but not with total body fat % (r=0.39, p=0.16). Our findings suggest that central obesity, but not total body fat per se, may be an important factor in the development of AMS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Phillip Phan
- Kinesiology, Towson University, Towson, United States
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Vinnikov D, Blanc PD, Steinmaus C. Is Smoking a Predictor for Acute Mountain Sickness? Findings From a Meta-Analysis. Nicotine Tob Res 2015; 18:1509-16. [PMID: 26419295 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntv218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Studies of the potential association between cigarette smoking and acute mountain sickness (AMS) have reached contradictory conclusions. Our aim was to perform a meta-analysis of studies across a range of populations to ascertain better the true relationship between cigarette smoking and AMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used the PRISMA protocol to identify and screen eligible studies of smoking and AMS. Databases including Pubmed and Google Scholar were searched, using the terms "smoking" and "acute mountain sickness." We conducted a meta-analysis of the selected studies in order to evaluate causal inference, evaluate potential biases, and investigate possible sources of heterogeneity across studies. RESULTS We identified 3907 publications, of which 29 were eligible for inclusion by reporting smoking status and AMS. Of these, eight publications were excluded because they were duplicative or were lacking quantitative data. The 21 studies analyzed included 16 566 subjects. These fell into two groups: occupational/military (n = 8) or volunteers/trekkers/mixed (n = 13). Study heterogeneity was high (X (2) = 55.5, P < .001). Smoking was not statistically associated with increased risk of AMS: pooled OR = 0.88 (95% CI = 0.74-1.05). Stratification yielded similar risk estimates among the occupational/military studies versus all others and studies at relatively higher and lower altitudes. CONCLUSIONS Overall, smoking was not statistically significantly associated with AMS: there is no consistent effect of cigarette smoking acting as either a protective factor against or a risk factor for AMS. IMPLICATIONS This is the first quantitative assessment of published studies on smoking and AMS, which shows smoking to be neither a risk, nor protective. Studies specifically focusing on smoking as a risk factor, should guide further research on this issue. Although all smokers should be strongly advised to quit, studies on risk factors for AMS focusing on other exposures could shed light on the full range of risks for AMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Vinnikov
- School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA;
| | - Paul D Blanc
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Craig Steinmaus
- School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
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12
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Impact of Study Design on Reported Incidences of Acute Mountain Sickness: A Systematic Review. High Alt Med Biol 2015; 16:204-15. [DOI: 10.1089/ham.2015.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
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13
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Leichtfried V, Basic D, Burtscher M, Gothe RM, Siebert U, Schobersberger W. Diagnosis and prediction of the occurrence of acute mountain sickness measuring oxygen saturation--independent of absolute altitude? Sleep Breath 2015; 20:435-42. [PMID: 26032284 DOI: 10.1007/s11325-015-1195-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Commercialization of trekking tourism enables untrained persons to participate in trekking tours. Because hypoxia is one of the main purported triggers for acute mountain sickness (AMS), pulse oximetry, which measures arterial oxygen saturation (SPO2), is discussed to be a possible and useful tool for the diagnosis of AMS. The purpose of this study was to evaluate possible associations between SPO2 values and the occurrence of AMS. METHODS In 204 trekkers, SPO2 values (pulse oximetry) were measured and the Lake Louise Self-assessment Score (LLS) was administered over the first 7 days of their trekking tours. RESULTS During treks at altitudes of 2500-5500 m in Nepal, India, Africa, and South America, 100 participants suffered from mild AMS, 3 participants suffered from severe AMS, and 9 participants reported both mild and severe AMS. The lowest mean SPO2 was 85.5 (95 % confidence interval (CI), 83.9-86.1 %) on day 5. SPO2 and LLS exhibited a weak to moderate negative correlation for all days of the study (ρ ranging from -0.142 to -0.370). Calculation of time-shifted associations of 24 and 48 h resulted in the disappearance of most associations. Susceptibility to headaches (odds ratio (OR) 2.9-7.2) and a history of AMS (OR 2.2-3.1) were determined to be potential risk factors for the development of AMS. CONCLUSION Since there is no strong altitude-independent association between AMS and SPO2 during the first week of high-altitude adaptation, the implementation of pulse oximetry during trekking in order to detect and predict AMS remains questionable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Leichtfried
- Institute for Sports Medicine, Alpine Medicine and Health Tourism, UMIT-University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology and TILAK Innsbruck, Eduard Wallnöfer Zentrum 1, 6060, Hall in Tirol, Austria.
| | - Daniel Basic
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, A-6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Martin Burtscher
- Department of Sport Science, Medical Section, University of Innsbruck, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Raffaella Matteucci Gothe
- Institute of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and HTA, UMIT-University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, 6060, Hall in Tirol, Austria
| | - Uwe Siebert
- Institute of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and HTA, UMIT-University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, 6060, Hall in Tirol, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Schobersberger
- Institute for Sports Medicine, Alpine Medicine and Health Tourism, UMIT-University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology and TILAK Innsbruck, Eduard Wallnöfer Zentrum 1, 6060, Hall in Tirol, Austria
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the effect of ascent rate on the induction of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in young adults during a climb to Jiaming Lake (3350 m) in Taiwan. DESIGN Prospective, nonrandomized. SETTING Climb from 2370 to 3350 m. PARTICIPANTS Young adults (aged 18 to 26 years) (N = 91) chose to participate in either the fast ascent (3 days; n = 43) or slow ascent (4 days; n = 48) group (1 and 2). ASSESSMENT OF RISK FACTORS Two criteria were used to define AMS. A Lake Louise score ≥3 and Lake Louise criteria [in the setting of a recent gain in altitude, the presence of headache and at least 1 of gastrointestinal discomfort (anorexia, nausea, or vomiting), fatigue or weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness, or difficulty sleeping]. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Heart rate, blood oxygen saturation (SaO2), and symptoms of AMS were monitored each morning and evening. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were similar between groups, except for significant differences in history of alcohol consumption (P = 0.009) and climbing experience above 3000 m (P < 0.001). The incidence of AMS was not associated with the rate of ascent. Acute mountain sickness was most prevalent in group 1 on day 2 in the evening and in group 2 on day 3 in the evening. In both groups, AMS correlated with the initial reduction in SaO2. Body mass index (BMI) >24 kg/m was identified as a significant risk factor for AMS. CONCLUSIONS The development of AMS was closely associated with an initial reduction in SaO2. A BMI >24 kg/m also contributed to the occurrence of AMS. CLINICAL RELEVANCE These findings indicate that factors other than ascent rate should be considered when trying to ameliorate the risk of AMS.
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Croughs M, Van Gompel A, Rameckers S, Van den Ende J. Serious altitude illness in travelers who visited a pre-travel clinic. J Travel Med 2014; 21:403-9. [PMID: 25238200 DOI: 10.1111/jtm.12160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Revised: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few data are available on the incidence and predictors of serious altitude illness in travelers who visit pre-travel clinics. Travel health consultants advise on measures to be taken in case of serious altitude illness but it is not clear if travelers adhere to these recommendations. METHODS Visitors to six travel clinics who planned to travel to an altitude of ≥3,000 m were asked to complete a diary from the first day at 2,000 m until 3 days after reaching the maximum sleeping altitude. Serious altitude illness was defined as having symptoms of serious acute mountain sickness (AMS score ≥ 6) and/or cerebral edema and/or pulmonary edema. RESULTS The incidence of serious altitude illness in the 401 included participants of whom 90% reached ≥4,000 m, was 35%; 23% had symptoms of serious AMS, 25% symptoms of cerebral edema, and 13% symptoms of pulmonary edema. Independent predictors were young age, the occurrence of dark urine, travel in South America or Africa, and lack of acclimatization between 1,000 and 2,500 m. Acetazolamide was brought along by 77% of the responders of whom 41% took at least one dose. Of those with serious altitude illness, 57% had taken at least one dose of acetazolamide, 20% descended below 2,500 m on the same day or the next, and 11% consulted a physician. CONCLUSIONS Serious altitude illness was a very frequent problem in travelers who visited pre-travel clinics. Young age, dark urine, travel in South America or Africa, and lack of acclimatization nights at moderate altitude were independent predictors. Furthermore, we found that seriously ill travelers seldom followed the advice to descend and to visit a physician.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieke Croughs
- Department of Environment, GGD Hart voor Brabant, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands; Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Vinnikov D, Brimkulov N, Krasotski V, Redding-Jones R, Blanc PD. Risk factors for occupational acute mountain sickness. Occup Med (Lond) 2014; 64:483-9. [DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqu094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Finsterer
- Krankenanstalt Rudolfstiftung, Postfach 20, 1180 Vienna , Austria
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18
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Wagner DR, Knott JR, Fry JP. Oximetry fails to predict acute mountain sickness or summit success during a rapid ascent to 5640 meters. Wilderness Environ Med 2012; 23:114-21. [PMID: 22656656 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2012.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2011] [Revised: 02/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine whether arterial oxygen saturation (Spo(2)) and heart rate (HR), as measured by a finger pulse oximeter on rapid arrival to 4260 m, could be predictive of acute mountain sickness (AMS) or summit success on a climb to 5640 m. METHODS Climbers (35.0 ± 10.1 years; 51 men, 5 women) were transported from 2650 m to the Piedra Grande hut at 4260 m on Pico de Orizaba within 2 hours. After a median time of 10 hours at the hut, they climbed toward the summit (5640 m) and returned, with a median trip time of 14 hours. The Lake Louise Self-Assessment Scale (LLSS) for AMS, HR, and Spo(2) were collected on arrival at the hut and repeated immediately before and after the climbers' summit attempts. RESULTS Average Spo(2) for all participants at 4260 m before their departure for the summit was 84.4% ± 3.7%. Thirty-seven of the 56 participants reached the summit, and 59% of all climbers met the criteria for AMS during the ascent. The Spo(2) was not significantly different between those who experienced AMS and those who did not (P = .82); neither was there a difference in Spo(2) between summiteers and nonsummiteers (P = .44). Climbers' HR just before the summit attempt was not related to AMS but was significantly lower for summiteers vs nonsummiteers (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS The Spo(2) does not appear to be predictive of AMS or summit success during rapid ascents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale R Wagner
- Human Movement Science Program, HPER Department, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-7000, USA.
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The Effect of Path and Beginning Time of Ascending on Incidence of Acute Mountain Sickness around Mount Damavand in Iran (5671 m). Neurol Res Int 2012; 2012:428296. [PMID: 22530120 PMCID: PMC3316942 DOI: 10.1155/2012/428296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2011] [Revised: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. This study was designed to evaluate the incidence of acute mountain sickness (AMS) occurring on different climbing routes on Mount Damavand and the effect of beginning time of ascent in Iranian trekkers. Methods. This study was a descriptive cohort investigation, performed in summer 2007. All trekkers who ascended Mount Damavand from northern, western, eastern, and southern paths and passed 4200 m altitude were included in the study. Two questionnaires were completed for each trekker (personal information and Lake Louise score questionnaire). Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to explore the independent predicting variables for AMS. Results. Overall incidence rate of AMS was 53.6%. This rate was the highest in south route (61.5%) (P < 0.001). There was no difference in the incidence of AMS on other paths. AMS history, AMS history on Damavand, the beginning time of climbing, sleeping at 4200 m altitude, and home altitude had significant effect on AMS incidence, but by multiple logistic regression analysis south route and AMS history on Mount Damavand had positive effect on incidence of AMS (P = 0.019 and P < 0.001). Conclusion. The path and the beginning time of ascent can affect incidence of AMS. The risk of occurrence of AMS was 1.9 times as large for trekkers who ascended from southern route.
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Willmann G, Fischer MD, Schatz A, Schommer K, Messias A, Zrenner E, Bartz-Schmidt KU, Gekeler F. Quantification of optic disc edema during exposure to high altitude shows no correlation to acute mountain sickness. PLoS One 2011; 6:e27022. [PMID: 22069483 PMCID: PMC3206056 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0027022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 10/07/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The study aimed to quantify changes of the optic nerve head (ONH) during exposure to high altitude and to assess a correlation with acute mountain sickness (AMS). This work is related to the Tuebingen High Altitude Ophthalmology (THAO) study. Methodology/Principal Findings A confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (cSLO, Heidelberg Retina Tomograph, HRT3®) was used to quantify changes at the ONH in 18 healthy participants before, during and after rapid ascent to high altitude (4559 m). Slitlamp biomicroscopy was used for clinical optic disc evaluation; AMS was assessed with Lake Louise (LL) and AMS-cerebral (AMS-c) scores; oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) were monitored. These parameters were used to correlate with changes at the ONH. After the first night spent at high altitude, incidence of AMS was 55% and presence of clinical optic disc edema (ODE) 79%. Key stereometric parameters of the HRT3® used to describe ODE (mean retinal nerve fiber layer [RNFL] thickness, RNFL cross sectional area, optic disc rim volume and maximum contour elevation) changed significantly at high altitude compared to baseline (p<0.05) and were consistent with clinically described ODE. All changes were reversible in all participants after descent. There was no significant correlation between parameters of ODE and AMS, SpO2 or HR. Conclusions/Significance Exposure to high altitude leads to reversible ODE in the majority of healthy subjects. However, these changes did not correlate with AMS or basic physiologic parameters such as SpO2 and HR. For the first time, a quantitative approach has been used to assess these changes during acute, non-acclimatized high altitude exposure. In conclusion, ODE presents a reaction of the body to high altitude exposure unrelated to AMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Willmann
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - M. Dominik Fischer
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Andreas Schatz
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Kai Schommer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Medical Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andre Messias
- Department of Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eberhart Zrenner
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Karl U. Bartz-Schmidt
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Florian Gekeler
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
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Croughs M, Van Gompel A, Van den Ende J. Acute mountain sickness in travelers who consulted a pre-travel clinic. J Travel Med 2011; 18:337-43. [PMID: 21896098 DOI: 10.1111/j.1708-8305.2011.00537.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main objective of this study was to investigate the incidence and predictors of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in travelers who consulted a pre-travel clinic and the compliance with advices concerning this condition. METHODS A post-travel questionnaire was sent to clients of five travel clinics who planned to climb above 2,000 m. RESULTS The response was 77% and the data of all 744 respondents who stayed above 2,500 m were used for the analysis. Eighty-seven percent (646) read and understood the written advices on AMS. The incidence of AMS was 25% (184), and the predictors were previous AMS [odds ratio (OR) 2.2], female sex (OR 1.6), age (OR 0.98 per year), maximum sleeping altitude (OR 1.2 per 500 m), and the number of nights between 1,500 and 2,500 m (OR 0.9 per night). Eighty-seven percent of respondents understood the written advices about AMS but 21% did not read or understand the use of acetazolamide. Forty percent spent less than two nights between 1,500 and 2,500 m and 43% climbed more than 500 m/d once above 2,500 m. Acetazolamide was brought along by 541 respondents (72%) and 116 (16%) took it preventively. Of those with AMS 62 (34%) took acetazolamide treatment and 87 (47%) climbed higher despite AMS symptoms. The average preventive dose of acetazolamide was 250 mg/d, while the average curative dose was 375 mg/d. We found no relation between acetazolamide prevention and AMS (p = 0.540). CONCLUSIONS The incidence of AMS in travelers who stayed above 2,500 m was 25%. Predictors were previous AMS, female sex, age, maximum overnight altitude, and the number of nights between 1,500 and 2,500 m. Only half of these travelers followed the preventive and curative advices and 21% did not read or understand the use of acetazolamide. We found no preventive effect of a low dose of acetazolamide in this retrospective observational study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieke Croughs
- GGD Hart voor Brabant, Community Health Service,'s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands.
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22
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The genetics of altitude tolerance: the evidence for inherited susceptibility to acute mountain sickness. J Occup Environ Med 2011; 53:159-68. [PMID: 21270658 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0b013e318206b112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Acute mountain sickness (AMS) has become a significant environmental health issue as improvements in transportation, "environmental tourism," and resource development lure more people to the highlands. Whether there is a genetic contribution to AMS susceptibility is a central question in high-altitude medicine. This article provides a systematic review of the evidence supporting such an innate predisposition. METHODS Scientific literature databases were screened using the terms "acute mountain sickness/AMS" and "altitude illness" combined with the terms "DNA," "gene," "genetic," or "polymorphism." RESULTS Sixteen genes from a variety of pathways have been tested for association with AMS and variants in eight showed positive associations suggesting that AMS is an environmentally mediated polygenic disorder. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest that genotype contributes to capacity to rapidly and efficiently acclimatize to altitude; nevertheless, the mechanisms by which this occurs have yet to be elucidated.
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MacInnis MJ, Koehle MS, Rupert JL. Evidence for a genetic basis for altitude illness: 2010 update. High Alt Med Biol 2011; 11:349-68. [PMID: 21190504 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2010.1030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Altitude illness refers to a group of environmentally mediated pathophysiologies. Many people will suffer acute mountain sickness shortly after rapidly ascending to a moderately hypoxic environment, and an unfortunate few will develop potentially fatal conditions such as high altitude pulmonary edema or high altitude cerebral edema. Some individuals seem to be predisposed to developing altitude illness, suggesting an innate contribution to susceptibility. The implication that there are altitude-sensitive and altitude-tolerant individuals has stimulated much research into the contribution of a genetic background to the efficacy of altitude acclimatization. Although the effect of altitude attained and rate of ascent on the etiology of altitude illness is well known, there are only tantalizing, but rapidly accumulating, clues to the genes that may be involved. In 2006, we reviewed what was then known about the genetics of altitude illness. This article updates that review and attempts to tabulate all the available genetic data pertaining to these conditions. To date, 58 genes have been investigated for a role in altitude illness. Of these, 17 have shown some association with the susceptibility to, or the severity of, these conditions, although in many cases the effect size is small or variable. Caution is recommended when evaluating the genes for which no association was detected, because a number of the investigations reviewed in this article were insufficiently powered to detect small effects. No study has demonstrated a clear-cut altitude illness gene, but the accumulating data are consistent with a polygenic condition with a strong environmental component. The genes that have shown an association affect a variety of biological pathways, suggesting that either multiple systems are involved in altitude pathophysiology or that gene-gene interactions play a role. Although numerous studies have been performed to investigate specific genes, few have looked for evidence of heritability or familial transmission, or for epidemiological patterns that would be consistent with genetically influenced conditions. Future trends, such as genome-wide association studies and epigenetic analysis, should lead to enhanced understanding of the complex interactions within the genome and between the genome and hypoxic environments that contribute to an individual's capacity to acclimatize rapidly and effectively to altitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin J MacInnis
- School of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia, 6081 University Boulevard, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Mairer K, Wille M, Bucher T, Burtscher M. Prevalence of Acute Mountain Sickness in the Eastern Alps. High Alt Med Biol 2009; 10:239-45. [DOI: 10.1089/ham.2008.1091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Klemens Mairer
- Department of Sport Science, Medical Section, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Maria Wille
- Department of Sport Science, Medical Section, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Thomas Bucher
- Department of Sport Science, Medical Section, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Martin Burtscher
- Department of Sport Science, Medical Section, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Wagner DR, D'Zatko K, Tatsugawa K, Murray K, Parker D, Streeper T, Willard K. Mt. Whitney: determinants of summit success and acute mountain sickness. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2008; 40:1820-7. [PMID: 18799993 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0b013e31817e91b8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of summit success and acute mountain sickness (AMS) on Mt. Whitney (4419 m) and to identify variables that contribute to both. METHODS Hikers (N = 886) attempting the summit were interviewed at the trailhead upon their descent. Questionnaires included demographic and descriptive data, acclimatization and altitude history, and information specific to the ascent. The Lake Louise Self-Assessment Score was used to make a determination about the occurrence of AMS. Logistic regression techniques were used to calculate odds ratios (OR) for AMS and summit success. RESULTS Forty-three percent of the sample met the criteria for AMS, and 81% reached the summit. The odds of experiencing AMS were reduced with increases in age (adjusted 10-yr OR = 0.78; P < 0.001), number of hours spent above 3000 m in the 2 wk preceding the ascent (adjusted 24-h OR = 0.71; P < 0.001), and for females (OR = 0.68; P = 0.02). Climbers who had a history of AMS (OR = 1.41; P = 0.02) and those taking analgesics (OR = 2.39; P < 0.001) were more likely to experience AMS. As climber age increased, the odds of reaching the summit decreased (adjusted 10-yr OR = 0.75; P < 0.001). However, increases in the number of hours per week spent training (adjusted 5-h OR = 1.24; P = 0.05), rate of ascent (adjusted 50 m x h(-1) OR = 1.13; P = 0.04), and previous high-altitude record (adjusted 500 m OR = 1.26; P < 0.001) were all associated with increased odds for summit success. CONCLUSIONS A high percentage of trekkers reached the summit despite having symptoms of AMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale R Wagner
- Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
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Wagner DR, Tatsugawa K, Parker D, Young TA. Reliability And Utility of A Visual Analog Scale for The Assessment of Acute Mountain Sickness. High Alt Med Biol 2007; 8:27-31. [PMID: 17394414 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2006.0814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a common condition that affects people that ascend too rapidly to high altitude. It is typically assessed with the Lake Louise AMS Self-report Score (LLSelf) that uses a categorical numeric rating scale to answer five questions addressing AMS-related symptoms, such as headache. A 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS) is commonly used to assess subjective phenomena such as pain, but this scale has never been used for the self-assessment of AMS. The purpose of this study was to compare a VAS score to the total LLSelf and to evaluate the test-retest and interrater reliability of the VAS when used as an assessment of AMS. Participants (N = 356) completed both the LLSelf and the VAS on the summit of Mt. Whitney (4419 m). There was a significant relationship (r = 0.65, p < 0.01) between the LLSelf (2.8 +/- 2.0, mean +/- SD) and the VAS (14.4 +/- 14.1 mm). Fifty-seven participants were randomly selected for reliability testing of the VAS. Both test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.996, 95% CI = 0.992 to 0.998) and interrater reliability (ICC = 1.000, 95% CI = 0.999 to 1.000) were high. The mean difference in the VAS score between tests was <1 mm, as was the difference between raters. These results demonstrate excellent reliability for the VAS as an assessment of AMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale R Wagner
- Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322-7000, USA.
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