Generally, areas with an altitude of 3000 meters above sea level are called plateaus. When the altitude reaches 3000 meters, although the alveolar oxygen partial pressure decreases, the hemoglobin bound to oxygen in the body’s blood can still reach 90% saturation, resulting in less obvious hypoxia and less damage. When the altitude reaches 5500 meters, the alveolar oxygen partial pressure seriously drops to only 1/2 of the level at sea level. At this time, the hemoglobin bound to oxygen is only 40%, causing symptoms of hypoxia such as headache, dizziness, palpitations, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, abdominal distension, chest tightness, chest pain, fatigue and weakness, dry lips, and nosebleeds.
Due to the fact that the human body requires more oxygen to break down fat than to break down sugar, the dietary structure should be adjusted within 7-10 days after reaching high altitude, appropriately reducing fat intake, increasing sugar intake, and consuming easily digestible foods. It is advisable to eat less and eat more, and avoid overeating during dinner.
In high-altitude environments, the body’s metabolism accelerates, so it is necessary to increase the content of protein, iron, and vitamin B in the diet, and eat more lean meat, vegetables, and fruits.
Plateau areas are dry, and the surface tension of water is low. When exercising, the ventilation volume of the human body significantly increases, and the respiratory distress increases. It is especially important to note that people who first enter the plateau often do not feel thirsty, so it is more important to supplement fluids in a timely and appropriate manner.
In terms of daily life, it is best not to take a shower on the day of arrival. It is advocated to go to bed early and wake up late. The pillow should be appropriately raised, sleep should be sufficient, and the room temperature should not be too high. When arriving in high-altitude areas, walking should be as slow as possible, without coughing or running.
Traveling outside, it is inevitable to encounter unexpected situations. At this time, comrades around should not panic and can calmly seek on-site treatment according to the specific situation.
