on the effect of altitude on the human body it would appear apparent that it is important to recognize symptoms early and take corrective measures. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms. The avoidance of tobacco, alcohol, and other depressant drugs including, barbiturates, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills is important. These depressants further decrease the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of the symptoms. A high carbohydrate diet (more than 70% of your calories from carbohydrates) while at altitude also appears to facilitate recovery. A little planning and awareness can greatly decrease the chances of altitude sickness. Recognizing early symptoms can result in the avoidance of more serious consequences of altitude sickness. The human body is a complex biochemical organism that requires an adequate supply of oxygen to function. The ability of this organism to adjust to a wide range of conditions is a testament to its survivability. The decreased partial pressure of oxygen with increasing altitude is one of these adaptations. Sources: Electric Differential Multimedia Lab, Travel Precautions and Advice, University of Iowa Medical College, 1995. Gerking, Shelby D., Biological Systems, W.B. Saunders Company, 1969. Grolier Electronic Publishing, The New Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia, 1993. Grollman, Sigmund, The Human Body: Its Structure and Physiology, Macmillian Publishing Company, 1978. Guyton, Arthur C., Physiology of the Human Body, 5th Edition, Saunders College Publishing, 1979. Hackett, P., Mountain Sickness, The Mountaineers, Seattle, 1980. Hubble, Frank, High Altitude Illness, Wilderness Medicine Newsletter, March/April 1995. Hubble, Frank, The Use of Diamox in the Prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness, Wilderness Medicine Newsletter, March/April 1995. Isaac, J. and Goth, P., The Outward...
