At what altitude will there be a lack of oxygen? ——The critical point and scientific response to altitude sickness
With the popularity of outdoor travel and plateau adventure, "How much altitude causes hypoxia" has become a hot topic recently. This article will combine the hot discussions and scientific data in the past 10 days on the Internet to analyze the relationship between hypoxia and altitude, and provide practical suggestions.
1. The critical point of hypoxia and altitude
The body's sensitivity to hypoxia varies among individuals, but the scientific community generally agrees on the following altitude classifications:
| Altitude (meters) | Oxygen content (vs. sea level) | Human body reaction |
|---|---|---|
| 0-1500 | 100%-85% | Basically no discomfort |
| 1500-2500 | 85%-75% | Slightly accelerated breathing |
| 2500-3500 | 75%-65% | Areas with high incidence of altitude sickness |
| 3500-5500 | 65%-50% | Requires professional adaptation training |
| 5500 and above | Less than 50% | extremely dangerous area |
2. Recent hot events confirm
1.Tibet tourist season is coming: Data from major platforms show that the number of tourists entering Tibet in June increased by 40% year-on-year, and the number of searches for "How to Prevent High Rebellion" surged.
2.Congestion on Mount Everest sparks heated discussion: At the end of May, a video of a massive congestion on the southern slope of Mount Everest was exposed. Experts pointed out that staying above 5,500 meters for a long time can cause cerebral edema.
3.Qinghai Lake Tour postponed: The Qinghai Lake Cycling Race originally scheduled to be held in June was postponed due to collective altitude sickness among the athletes. The altitude range of the event is 3,000-4,120 meters.
3. Grading of altitude sickness symptoms
| Severity | Typical symptoms | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | Headache, insomnia, loss of appetite | Rest + oxygen |
| Moderate | Nausea and vomiting, dizziness, fatigue | Medication + Descending Altitude |
| Severe | Confusion, pulmonary edema, cerebral edema | emergency medical assistance |
4. Scientific response suggestions
1.stepped adaptation: The daily elevation increase should not exceed 300 meters, and the stay should be 1-2 days for every 1,000 meters of elevation.
2.blood oxygen monitoring: The normal value is 95%-100%. If it is lower than 90%, you need to be vigilant.
3.Nutritional supplements: High carbohydrate diet + vitamin B complex, drink 2-3 liters of water every day.
4.drug prevention: Acetazolamide needs to be taken 24 hours in advance, and the effect of Rhodiola rosea is controversial.
5. Precautions for special groups of people
| Crowd type | Recommended altitude limit | Special reminder |
|---|---|---|
| healthy adults | 5500 meters | Requires professional training |
| Children (6-12 years old) | 3500 meters | Stay no longer than 48 hours |
| cardiovascular disease patients | 2500 meters | Requires medical evaluation |
| pregnant woman | 2000 meters | Avoid long stays |
Conclusion
2,500 meters above sea level is generally recognized as the starting point for hypoxia, but individual differences vary greatly. The recent syncope incident while riding on National Highway 318 (at an altitude of 3,200 meters) and the first aid case of tourists in the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (at an altitude of 4,506 meters) once again remind us: plateau travel must be scientifically prepared and proceed according to one's ability. It is recommended that first-time visitors to Tibet take the train to gradually adapt and carry a portable oxygen bottle with them.
check the details
check the details
en
