Stephen Bezruchka

Altitude illness is the body‘s reaction to being at extreme altitudes. Pretty much anything over 8000 feet. The air is thinner and it’s harder to breathe. This book discusses what high-altitude illness is how to diagnose it and what to do about it. It is written for the lay person and for the medical professional. The book is easy to understand. It explains the symptomology a high-altitude illness. It gives information on drugs for the treatment of high altitude illness. It pays little attention to exercise or preparation for high altitude. Apparently exercise and physical fitness does not prevent altitude sickness.

There is a section on preparing for being at high altitude under specific situations, and has case studies of People who have been on specific mountains. I found these case studies really informative. The basic message is lose weight and talk with your doctor if you have diabetes or a heart condition.

I am planning on going to the Nepal for vacation. I know that is at about 11,000 feet high. I’ve been to La Paz Bolivia which is at 12,000 feet. I was in my 30’s and great deal lighter. I’m much older now and need to prepare myself for the journey ahead.

The author includes a glossary and an index. There are several tables that are handy for checking on symptoms and giving advice to treat high altitude sickness. Overall I thought the book was a good first step for investigating this topic.… (mais)