Problems With Breathing at High Altitudes

Having trouble breathing at high altitudes is a common condition associated with various high-altitude illnesses. This condition occurs with individuals who have not properly or sufficiently acclimatized to the altitude they are at. Whether you are an avid mountaineer, or simply moving to a higher altitude destination, various breathing complications are possible. Understanding the symptoms are crucial to effective treatment.

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

• HAPE is a tremendously serious respiratory problem that occurs in some individuals at high altitudes. It is a result of a buildup of fluid in the lungs, thus making an effective oxygen exchange in the lungs impossible. Those who get HAPE often experience a productive cough, a feeling of suffocation when trying to sleep at night, tightness in the chest and shortness of breath. Princeton University states that in cases of HAPE, "immediate descent is a necessary life-saving measure." If HAPE goes unchecked, problems such as a decrease in cerebral function, cyanosis and possibly even death can occur.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

• AMS occurs in varying degrees, from moderate to severe, and is relatively common in high altitudes of 10,000 feet and above. The symptoms of IMS, among others, include shortness of breath, nausea and fatigue. If the symptoms are mild, continuing an ascent is permissible so long as it is at a moderate rate. Once symptoms become more serious, such as an increased difficulty breathing during rests, ataxia (decreased coordination), or fluid buildup in the lungs, the situation is significantly more serious, and an immediate descent is required.

Periodic Breathing (Cheyne Stokes)

• Cheyne Stokes is a condition that is not considered uncommon at high elevations. Unless it is experienced during an illness or immediately following an injury, it is not a serious problem. During Cheyne Stokes breathing, respiration slows significantly and at times may completely stop for a period of several seconds, after which shallow breaths occur again. This periodic breathing often makes sleep difficult and adds to a sense of suffocation or restlessness.