Cardiac Risk in High-Altitude Mountaineering

Cardiac risk in high-altitude mountaineering refers to the potential heart-related issues that can arise when climbing at high elevations. At higher altitudes, the air contains less oxygen, which can strain the heart as it works harder to pump enough blood. This increased demand can lead to arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), heart attacks, or even sudden cardiac events, especially in individuals with existing heart conditions. It's crucial for climbers to be aware of their heart health, acclimatize properly, and recognize symptoms of altitude sickness, as these can influence overall cardiac safety during their ascent.