At high altitudes, the atmosphere contains less oxygen due to reduced air pressure, requiring the human body to adapt. As you ascend, the availability of oxygen decreases, causing a range of physiological responses. For instance, at 3,500 meters, the oxygen level is about 60% of that at sea level. In response, the body increases breathing rate to take in more oxygen, though this can lead to lower carbon dioxide levels, resulting in dizziness or shortness of breath. Additionally, the heart rate rises to pump more oxygen-rich blood to tissues, even during rest.
Physical exertion becomes increasingly difficult as muscles receive less oxygen, making simple activities more strenuous. The faster breathing associated with altitude also leads to greater fluid loss, which, combined with the dry air common at high elevations, accelerates dehydration and heightens the risk of altitude sickness. Sleep disturbances, such as periodic breathing, can cause fragmented rest, leaving individuals fatigued. Without proper acclimatization, altitude sickness can set in, starting with Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and potentially progressing to more severe and life-threatening conditions like High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).
