Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Altitude sickness causes
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Altitude sickness is brought on by the combination of reduced air pressure and lower oxygen concentration that occur at high altitudes.
Causes
Causes
Common Causes
Altitude sickness may be caused by:[1][2]
- Ascending to a great height too rapidly
- Live at or near sea level and travel to a high altitude
- Alcohol or other substances have interfered with acclimatization
- Medical problems involving the heart, nervous system, or lung
References
References
- ↑ Taylor AT (January 2011). “High-altitude illnesses: physiology, risk factors, prevention, and treatment”. Rambam Maimonides Med J. 2 (1): e0022. doi:10.5041/RMMJ.10022. PMC 3678789. PMID 23908794.
- ↑ Murdoch D (March 2010). “Altitude sickness”. BMJ Clin Evid. 2010. PMC 2907615. PMID 21718562.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Farima Kahe M.D. [2]