Altitude Medicine

Altitude medicine focuses on understanding and managing health challenges that arise when people ascend to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters). At these heights, the air is thinner, making it harder to get enough oxygen, which can lead to altitude sickness. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. In wilderness medicine, altitude medicine teaches techniques for prevention, recognizing symptoms, and treating altitude-related conditions. This knowledge is crucial for safe outdoor activities like hiking or mountaineering, ensuring that individuals can enjoy high-altitude environments while minimizing health risks.