High Altitude Exposure in Older Adults

Introduction:

Living in the mountains renders beautiful landscapes and opportunities for both recreation and relaxation that are usually not common at lower elevations. Further, mountain air is fresh because it contains less harmful gasses and less air pollution. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, irrespective of health or age, but the effects are more pronounced in the elderly due to the risk of preexisting health conditions.

What Is Altitude Illness, and What Are the Various Types of Altitude Illness?

Traveling to an elevation higher than 8,000 feet above sea level or higher may put one at risk for altitude illness, which occurs due to low levels of oxygen in the air. Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is considered the mildest form of altitude sickness, and its symptoms are as follows:

• Tiredness.

• Headache.

• Nausea.

• Vomiting.

• Lack of appetite.

• Kids who have yet to start talking may appear fussy.

Individuals with altitude illnesses should not travel to higher altitudes until they no longer experience any symptoms. An individual whose symptoms worsen while resting should travel to a lower altitude or elevation to refrain from becoming seriously ill or dying. High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) is considered a serious form of AMS, and its symptoms are as follows:

• Drowsiness.

• Extreme fatigue.

• Loss of coordination.

• Fatigue.

Though HACE is rare, it can result in death. If a person develops HACE, they should immediately shift or be shifted to a lower elevation.

Another type of altitude illness is known as high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), which can quickly pose a threat to life. Its symptoms include:

• Weakness.

• Shortness of breath.

• Cough.

In case a person develops HAPE, they should immediately shift or be shifted to a lower elevation.

What Are the Changes That Occur in the Elderly Due to High-Altitude Exposure?

The following are some of the challenges that the elderly might face when transitioning to higher altitudes:

• Hypoxemia: The inability of the blood to carry sufficient oxygen to the tissues is called hypoxia, and this can result in a dangerously low amount of oxygen in the blood, which is referred to as hypoxemia. Hypoxia tends to initiate when one is at around 6,000 feet, which can result in various symptoms like nausea, headaches, shortness of breath, and increased heart rates. Symptoms can become more evident in those who already have minimal oxygen uptake or VO2 max (maximal oxygen consumption). VO2 max is the ability of the body to utilize oxygen during exercise, and it tends to decrease naturally as altitude increases.

• Pulmonary Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure that affects the arteries in the heart and lungs is called pulmonary hypertension. This can cause shortness of breath when doing normal activities like climbing stairs. Individuals may also feel dizzy or faint when experiencing pulmonary hypertension, which can make it harder or impossible for them to carry out daily activities. Reduced oxygen in the blood when at high altitudes can aggravate the symptoms. The common treatment for pulmonary hypertension is oxygen therapy, which can be greatly efficacious at high altitudes.

• Sympathetic Activation: Hypoxia can result in sympathetic excitation, which is an overreaction of the nervous system. As there is an increase in the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, an elevation in heart rate and blood pressure can occur. Common symptoms of sympathetic excitation include headaches, confusion, tingling, weakness, and double vision. Negative sensations tend to increase with activity, which can make it challenging to lead an active lifestyle.

• Underlying Health Conditions: With age, the susceptibility to developing a known or yet unrecognized medical issue increases. Apart from assessing and alleviating the risk of acute altitude illness faced by all high-altitude travelers, caution must be taken as to whether the underlying health issue will aggravate at high altitude or put the individual at risk of developing various complications during their travel.

What Is Acclimatization, and How Can Elderly Travelers Follow It?

Acclimatization refers to gradual exposure to high altitudes, enabling the body to accustom and adapt to the lower oxygen levels. This type of unhurried ascent significantly lowers the risk and severity of altitude sickness, ensuring a safer and smoother travel experience. Elderly individuals can follow the below-mentioned acclimatization tips:

• Permitting Time for Adaptation: Elderly individuals require more time for their bodies to get accustomed to environmental changes. Acclimatization provides them with the necessary time to adapt gradually. Making a transition to higher altitudes without acclimatization may result in more severe symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) like dizziness, headache, nausea, and fatigue. By gradually making the ascent and enabling time for adaptation, elderly travelers can rejoice in their journey without any health-related complications.

• Lowering Health Risks: Age-related health concerns like respiratory or cardiovascular issues can aggravate when exposed to high altitudes. Acclimatization safeguards against such possible health risks. By taking short breaks in between, staying hydrated, and ascending gradually, elderly travelers can minimize the complications of developing any health issues. This creates the feasibility of safe exploration of high-altitude locations.

• Enhancing Long-Term Health: Acclimatization benefits both the immediate journey as well as the long-term health benefits of elderly travelers. The unhurried exposure to varying altitudes serves as good exercise for the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and improves overall fitness levels. Also, getting accustomed to varying environments can promote adaptability and resilience and can provide a positive contribution to one’s health even after returning from the trip.

The main aim of travel is to rejoice in new experiences and create beautiful memories. Acclimatization aids in significant comfort and overall enjoyment of the journey. By acclimating gradually, elderly travelers can indulge in activities, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, and soak themselves in the beauty of the destination without the hindrance of any altitude-related discomfort. This gradual adaptation enables a more relaxed and contented travel experience.

Conclusion:

Exploring the beauty of high-altitude destinations can be a cherishing experience for travelers of all ages. However, for elderly individuals, adapting to varying altitudes can be challenging. Moderate altitude exposure in the elderly is linked with sympathetic activation, hypoxemia, and pulmonary hypertension. Management of underlying health issues is necessary for all travelers before setting out on a trip to high altitudes. An adequate supply of regular as well as emergency medications should be kept in hand while traveling to high altitudes. Further, acclimatization can help elderly individuals make a gradual and safe transition to destinations located at high altitudes.