Altitude

Practicalities Health Other Possible Problems Altitude 

Holidays or even day trips up mountains can be a problem for children with a heart problem or potentially with asthma so beware of rides up to the top of mountains such as Mont Blanc where altitude sickness can strike.

Symptoms may not show themselves for a day or two though light-headedness, weakness, lethargy and difficult in sleeping may be felt immediately.

Children are reported to be more likely to suffer than adults - reported by some sources 16 times more likely - because their bodies don't adjust as easily to low oxygen levels. In addition they may not be good at noticing the warning signs.

Diagnosis in children is difficult, especially under the age of two, so any signs of illness should probably be taken as a warning sign. In cases of increasing fatigue and disorientation you should probably seek medical help.

Note too that because the air is thinner people breathe more frequently at altitude, therefore losing more moisture. Drinking more than usual is therefore important and even children are advised to drink at least six and preferably eight glasses a day.

Measures to Avoid/Alleviate

• Speed of ascent is a significant factor.



• So is exertion, andWalking particularly may cause a headache and staying upright may cause dizziness.



• If symptoms do not disappear after rest you should descend, though some commentators suggest you should give it 48 hours, others feel you should move down at the first sign of problems.