Medical Tips

MEDICAL TIPS FOR MOUNTAIN VISITORS

By Roger Sherman, MD, and Physician Advisor to CBFPD EMS

ALTITUDE SICKNESS: Most of Gunnison County is within the moderate altitude range (8,000-12,000 ft.). Many people are completely unaffected by the altitude. However, a few people may experience a range of symptoms we refer to as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or Altitude Illness. Symptoms include a more rapid respiratory rate, shortness of breath (particularly with exertion), fatigue, headache, nausea, decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping (particularly awakening with a headache), and others. These will often remain mild and resole within 2-3 days by following some simple self-care suggestions. Your first 2-3 days at altitude are best spent gradually "acclimatizing". Activity levels should be moderate, and though the temptation is to "go all out" as soon as you arrive, allow your body to get used to the altitude. Excessive alcohol should be avoided, as well as non-essential prescription narcotics and barbiturates. Drink several large glasses of water each day, as dehydration is a common cause of worsening AMS. A diet high in complex carbohydrates (with decreased fat intake) is thought to be preferable. The symptoms of AMS can occasionally progress to its more severe forms. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) are suspected when symptoms become severe and persistent. A physician should be contacted immediately.

PROTECT YOUR SKIN & EYES: As the Earth's atmosphere becomes less dense at altitude, so does its ability to protect you from the sun's radiation. This means that special attention must be given to protecting our skin and eyes. Though we call it snowblindness, the painful sunburn affecting the eyes can occur in both summer and winter. The pain is described as "having sand in your eyes". This problem is easily prevented by the use of sunglasses that will filter out the most harmful UVB radiation. The same problems can also affect your skin and you will burn more quickly. Also, our cooler temperatures may prove deceptive and tempt you into longer exposures. A high SPF sunblock will provide adequate protection, applied frequently and liberally. Remember, neither sunglasses nor sunblock do any good if they are not used (even on cloudy days). Children must be equally protected.

NOSE BLEEDS: The typically dry climate and use of air heating systems in homes frequently combine to cause drying of the lining of the nose. Because blood vessels in the nose are near the surface, they become dry and brittle and occasionally crack causing a nose bleed. Humidifiers (available for rent) as well as increase in fluid intake can help alleviate this problem. If you develop a nose bleed, pinch your nose for 10-15 minutes continuously. If it persists, call for medical advice.

BLEEDING: CALL 911 - GET HELP: Apply firm, direct pressure with a clean cloth. Hold 10-15 minutes continuously. If the dressing becomes soaked, do not remove it, but apply another clean cloth over it, and continue holding pressure. If possible, elevate the injured part above the heart level.

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If you have questions about these or other medical problems, please call your medical provider. If you have a critical medical problem, Dial 911.

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