altitude sickness

altitude sickness

noun

Definition of ALTITUDE SICKNESS

: the effects (as headache, nausea, or swelling of the brain) of oxygen deficiency in the blood and tissues developed at high altitudes having reduced atmospheric pressure

First Known Use of ALTITUDE SICKNESS

1901

al·ti·tude sickness

noun \ˌal-tə-ˌt(y)üd-\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of ALTITUDE SICKNESS

: the effects (as nosebleed, nausea, or headache) of oxygen deficiency in the blood and tissues developed at high altitudes with reduced atmospheric pressure

altitude sickness

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Acute reaction to a change from low altitudes to altitudes above 8,000 ft (2,400 m). Most people gradually adapt, but some have a severe reaction that can be fatal unless they return to low altitude. Normal adaptations to the reduced oxygen at high altitude (e.g., breathlessness, racing heartbeat) are exaggerated; other manifestations include headache, gastrointestinal upsets, and weakness. Pulmonary edema is quickly reversed with oxygen and evacuation to a lower area.

Variants of ALTITUDE SICKNESS

altitude sickness or mountain sickness