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Mountain adventures can be exhilarating, offering breathtaking views and fresh air, whether you’re skiing down a snow-covered slope or hiking through an alpine park. But for those with heart disease or risk factors for cardiovascular issues, the high altitudes can pose a serious health risk.
Dr. William K. Cornwell, an associate professor of cardiology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, warns that reduced oxygen levels at higher altitudes can strain the heart. “There is less oxygen available to breathe at higher altitudes, and if you have risk factors for heart disease or stroke, the higher you go, the greater the risk,” he explains.
The challenges of higher elevations are often subtle at first. Dr. Jennifer Dow, an emergency medicine specialist at Alaska Regional Hospital, points out that travelers may not even notice the difference as they quickly ascend by plane. However, the air gets thinner with each rise in altitude, reducing the amount of oxygen available. For example, at 5,000 feet, air contains only 17.3% oxygen, and at 10,000 feet, it’s just 14.3%.
At these altitudes, your body has to work harder to process oxygen. Dr. Cornwell notes that this increased demand on the cardiovascular system can trigger stress responses in the body, including faster heartbeats and increased breathing rates. These physiological changes can strain a heart already at risk for complications.
For those with heart conditions, the effects can be severe. Low oxygen levels can trigger symptoms such as chest pain in individuals with coronary artery disease, worsen heart failure, and even increase the risk of sudden cardiac death—especially during the first day at altitude.
To help minimize these risks, Dr. Cornwell and Dr. Dow offer several heart-protecting strategies for anyone planning a mountain getaway:
1. Check Before You Go
Consult with your healthcare provider before embarking on any high-altitude trip, especially if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular risk factors. Dr. Cornwell stresses the importance of assessing whether your current health and medications are appropriate for such an environment.
2. Take Time to Acclimate
A gradual ascent is key. Dr. Cornwell recommends allowing 24 to 36 hours of acclimatization before engaging in strenuous activities. Even if you’re in good shape, taking it easy the first day can help your body adjust and lower the risk of altitude sickness or cardiovascular events.
3. Stay Hydrated—but Avoid Alcohol
Dehydration can exacerbate altitude-related symptoms, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water. However, alcohol should be avoided, as it can worsen symptoms of acute mountain sickness and impair judgment in case of an emergency.
4. Have a Plan
Before you head into the mountains, make sure you know the location of the nearest hospital and have a plan for evacuation in case of emergency. In remote areas, medical facilities may be limited, and snowstorms can make roads impassable. Pack extra medication in case your stay is extended.
5. Watch Out for One Another
Traveling with companions means you can look out for each other. Dr. Dow suggests discussing symptoms and agreeing to keep an eye on each other, especially if someone starts showing signs of altitude sickness. If someone starts stumbling or feels unusually fatigued, it may be time to descend to a lower altitude and seek medical attention.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of the mountains while safeguarding your heart. Dr. Cornwell emphasizes that the goal is not to deter anyone from high-altitude adventures, but rather to make informed decisions that can help reduce risks and enhance your experience.
With proper preparation and caution, the mountains can remain an enjoyable and heart-healthy escape for all.
