Altitude Effects in the Sierra Nevada, Spain

By admin • July 23, 2008

There have, in reality, been very few instances where AMS has resulted in having to bring a person down to a lower level. When that has been the case, the person has recovered immediately on getting to lower ground and has had no further problems.

These mountains have much high ground over 3000m, but provided that the advice above is followed, ie go slow, then the altitude effects are lessened considerably. On countless occasions we have parked the car at 2500m (having driven up in 1hr from 650m!) and someone has gone off too quick. It is very tempting! Take it very easy, a snails pace, especially for the first 30 minutes after leaving the car. We find that in that time our body adjusts better and we can then continue a little more rapidly. However, we live and train here in these mountains. If you have come straight in from sea level will find it harder.

The suggestion for trekkers in the Sierra Nevada therefore is to start slow. Forget records and competitive instincts. Go your own pace. Always be able to hold a conversation.

References:
More information about Altitude Related Problems in the Sierra Nevada.
A great free online reesource is the Medex handbook to High Altitude Travel, downloadable free.

Medex is a club that provides support for the charitable works of Medical Expeditions. Membership of Medex is open to all. Medical Expeditions is a research charity dedicated to investigating the mechanisms of altitude related illness.