Skiing in the snow-covered Alps this winter may seem like the ideal family vacation. However, doctors are warning that the high altitude in popular destinations poses a danger to babies. Altitude sickness is a common problem for individuals adjusting to higher elevations, causing symptoms such as headaches and nausea due to reduced oxygen levels. While most people recover within a few days, extreme cases can be life-threatening, especially for children who struggle with acclimating to changes in atmosphere.
A recent survey conducted among over 100 doctors and pediatricians working in the French Alps revealed that babies under the age of two should not be exposed to altitudes surpassing 2,000m. This means that ski resorts like Val Thorens (2,300m) and Tignes (2,100m) in the French Alps can potentially be dangerous for young children. Furthermore, infants under one month old should not be brought higher than 1,200m, which applies to locations like Ben Nevis in Scotland and the Great Wall of China. Children under three months old should not exceed 1,500m for day trips, and those under one year old should not go higher than 1,600m. These guidelines were published in the journal Archives de Pédiatrie by researchers from the Institute for Training and Research in Mountain Medicine in France.
In addition to short-term exposure, similar altitude restrictions were also advised for extended stays at high elevations. Traveling to places like La Paz in Bolivia (3,500m), Santa Fe in New Mexico (2,100m), and Machu Picchu (2,400m) may increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), as well as respiratory infections in infants with conditions like cold or bronchiolitis due to limited oxygen availability. However, airplane travel poses less risk since oxygen levels are adjusted within the cabin to counteract the effects of high altitudes. Increasing altitude by more than 2,500m in a short period can raise the likelihood of infant hospitalization for bronchiolitis.
When traveling to high altitudes with young children, doctors recommend measures such as using bottles or dummies, breastfeeding, and taking breaks every 500m to allow for gradual adjustments in air pressure. However, it is important to note that even in locations within the UK like Snowdon in north Wales (1,085m), precautions should be taken since babies should not ascend more than 1,000m in a single day to ensure proper acclimatization.
It is worth mentioning that the guidelines differ for children accustomed to higher altitudes, as they can better adapt to changes in air pressure.
In conclusion, altitude sickness can occur at elevations above 2,500m and may require medical treatment. It is crucial to acclimatize slowly to high altitudes to minimize symptoms such as headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. Immediate medical attention may be necessary for severe cases, including the use of steroid medication, blood pressure-lowering drugs, and oxygen therapy. Please note that altitude sickness does not occur in the UK.
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