Altitude Medicine: The Climber's Guide to Health Above 3,000 Meters¶

This advanced guide goes beyond basic altitude sickness to cover the complete spectrum of altitude medicine — peripheral edema, retinal hemorrhage, altitude-related sleep disturbance, chronic mountain sickness, and the pharmacology of altitude drugs. Written for experienced climbers heading to 5,000m+ who need deeper medical knowledge than the basics.

Introduction¶

When Basics Aren't Enough¶

The Full Spectrum of Altitude Illness¶

AMS Review — Quick Reference¶

HACE and HAPE — Life Threats¶

Peripheral Edema¶

High Altitude Retinal Hemorrhage¶

Altitude-Related Sleep Disturbance¶

Pharmacology for Climbers¶

Acetazolamide (Diamox) — Dosing and Side Effects¶

Dexamethasone — Emergency Use¶

Nifedipine — HAPE Treatment¶

Sildenafil — Altitude Performance¶

Oxygen Saturation Monitoring¶

Pulse Oximeters at Altitude¶

What the Numbers Mean¶

Pre-Existing Conditions at Altitude¶

Asthma¶

Heart Conditions¶

Diabetes¶

Gamow Bag¶

How Portable Hyperbaric Chambers Work¶

When to Use One¶

Building a High-Altitude Medical Kit¶