Chronic mountain sickness

Definition

Chronic mountain sickness, also known as Monge's disease, is a condition that affects individuals living at high altitudes for extended periods, characterized by an overproduction of red blood cells in response to prolonged hypoxia. This condition can lead to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, and sleep disturbances due to the body's attempt to compensate for low oxygen levels. Understanding this condition is crucial for recognizing the effects of altitude on health and managing the risks associated with hypoxia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chronic mountain sickness typically develops in individuals who have lived at altitudes above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) for several months or longer.
2. The condition is characterized by an excessive increase in red blood cell production (polycythemia) as the body attempts to improve oxygen transport.
3. Symptoms may include severe headaches, chronic fatigue, sleep apnea, and decreased exercise capacity due to poor oxygenation.
4. Individuals with chronic mountain sickness may also experience complications such as pulmonary hypertension and increased risk of thromboembolic events.
5. Management of chronic mountain sickness may involve gradual descent to lower altitudes, supplemental oxygen therapy, and medications to manage symptoms.

Review Questions

• How does chronic mountain sickness develop in individuals living at high altitudes?
  • Chronic mountain sickness develops in individuals who are exposed to high altitudes for extended periods, typically above 2,500 meters. The body responds to the decreased oxygen availability by increasing red blood cell production through a process called erythropoiesis. This adaptation is aimed at improving oxygen transport; however, excessive production can lead to complications such as symptoms of headache, fatigue, and respiratory issues.
• Discuss the potential complications that can arise from chronic mountain sickness and their implications on overall health.
  • Complications from chronic mountain sickness include pulmonary hypertension, which can lead to heart failure if untreated. Additionally, the increased blood viscosity resulting from polycythemia raises the risk of thromboembolic events such as strokes or deep vein thrombosis. These serious health implications highlight the importance of early recognition and management of chronic mountain sickness in affected individuals.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of different management strategies for chronic mountain sickness and their potential outcomes.
  • Management strategies for chronic mountain sickness include gradual descent to lower elevations, which often leads to symptom relief and improved quality of life. Supplemental oxygen therapy can also alleviate symptoms by increasing available oxygen. Medications like carbonic anhydrase inhibitors may help reduce red blood cell production. Evaluating these strategies shows that while gradual descent is the most effective long-term solution, combining treatments can enhance symptom management for those unable to descend immediately.

Related terms

Hypoxia: A deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, which can occur at high altitudes due to reduced atmospheric pressure.

Acclimatization: The process by which the body adjusts to changes in its environment, particularly in response to higher altitudes and lower oxygen levels.

Altitude Sickness: A range of health issues that occur when individuals ascend to high altitudes too quickly without proper acclimatization, including acute mountain sickness and high altitude cerebral edema.