Altitude sickness occurs when the body struggles to adapt to reduced oxygen at higher elevations. Supplemental oxygen can offer relief by increasing the oxygen concentration available for the body to absorb.
Recognizing When Oxygen Is Needed
Common indicators of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. Symptoms often appear within 6 to 12 hours of ascending. While mild symptoms resolve with rest and hydration, persistent discomfort may suggest a need for supplemental oxygen.
Oxygen use is considered when symptoms are moderate to severe and show no improvement. Conditions like High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), with severe headache, confusion, and loss of coordination, or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), with extreme shortness of breath and coughing, are medical emergencies. In these severe cases, supplemental oxygen immediately stabilizes the individual before rapid descent.
Types of Oxygen and Delivery Systems
Several forms of supplemental oxygen are available. Compressed oxygen cylinders, or tanks, store oxygen under high pressure. These tanks provide a consistent flow but vary in size and weight; larger tanks offer longer durations but are less portable.
Portable oxygen concentrators draw in ambient air, filtering out nitrogen to deliver concentrated oxygen. Lighter than tanks, these devices don’t require refilling but rely on battery power or an electrical outlet. Smaller, recreational oxygen cans offer limited, temporary relief due to their low volume.
Administering Oxygen Safely
Administering oxygen involves connecting a delivery device to the source and setting the flow rate. A nasal cannula, with two prongs, is common for lower flow rates (typically 1-6 LPM). For higher flow rates or significant breathing difficulty, a face mask may be used, covering nose and mouth.
When initiating oxygen therapy, a common starting point for flow rates is 2 to 4 LPM. Consult a medical professional for precise guidance. Monitor the individual’s response for symptom improvements like reduced headache, decreased nausea, or more comfortable breathing. Keep oxygen away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources, as it supports combustion. Proper storage in a well-ventilated area prevents pressure buildup or accidental damage.
Key Points for Oxygen Use
Supplemental oxygen is available from medical supply stores, pharmacies, or rental companies in altitude-prone areas. In high-altitude regions, tour operators or lodges may also provide oxygen. Confirm availability and make arrangements in advance for high-elevation trips.
While oxygen alleviates immediate symptoms and improves comfort, it does not cure altitude sickness. Descent to a lower elevation remains the definitive treatment. Consulting a healthcare professional before relying on oxygen, especially with pre-existing medical conditions, is recommended. Oxygen serves as a temporary measure, allowing for a safer, more controlled descent.