Abstract
Humans evolved at sea level and with the exception of the high-altitude populations of Central Asia and South America (who have adapted over many generations to the rarefied air) are poorly suited to high altitude. The most significant problem is hypobaric hypoxia (low oxygen levels as a result of a reduced barometric pressure), but cold, wind, reduced humidity, increased ultraviolet radiation and a paucity of flora, fauna and readily available drinking water make this a challenging environment.
N.B.: Drug dosages are given as a guide only and should be checked. Medicines should only be used under supervision of an appropriate and competent medical authority.
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Dhillon, S. (2014). Medicine at High Altitudes. In: Ryan, J., et al. Conflict and Catastrophe Medicine. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-2927-1_7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-2927-1_7
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