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1: N Z Med J. 1998 May 8;111(1065):168-9.Links

Acute mountain sickness in the Southern Alps of New Zealand.

Murdoch DR, Curry C.

Microbiology Unit, Canterbury Health Laboratories, Christchurch.

AIM: To assess the incidence and impact of acute mountain sickness in the Southern Alps of New Zealand. METHODS: Over a 22 month period, mountaineers in the Mount Cook region were asked to complete a questionnaire at the completion of their climbing excursions. The questionnaire recorded demographic data and incorporated the Lake Louise scoring system to assess the presence of acute mountain sickness. RESULTS: Of the 114 subjects who completed the questionnaire, 30 (26%) developed acute mountain sickness. The incidence was higher amongst those who slept above 2500 m (50%). Of those with acute mountain sickness, 33% reported that their symptoms resulted in no reduction in activity, while 13% reported a moderate or severe reduction in activity. CONCLUSION: Mountaineers climbing in New Zealand's Southern Alps should be aware of the risk of acute mountain sickness, especially for those sleeping above 2500 m.

PMID: 9612485 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]