Wilderness Medicine Podcast June 2017 - Wilderness And Environmental Medicine Live
Jun 9, 2017
Buddha Basnyat, an expert in altitude medicine from Nepal, discusses a groundbreaking study on the efficacy of ibuprofen versus acetaminophen in preventing acute mountain sickness. He shares insights about acclimatization, emphasizing its crucial role in high-altitude trekking. Brad Bennett, a research physiologist and past president of the Wilderness Medicine Society, delves into Tactical Combat Casualty Care, bridging battlefield lessons with wilderness medicine. Their engaging conversation highlights innovative strategies for trauma management in extreme environments.
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Equal Efficacy of Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen
- Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are equally effective in preventing acute mountain sickness (AMS).
- Both drugs reduced AMS incidence to about 19%, lower than the historical 33% without medication.
Acetaminophen as Safer AMS Prophylaxis
- Avoid acetazolamide in multi-day ultra-endurance events at altitude due to kidney stress.
- Consider acetaminophen as a safer alternative to prevent acute mountain sickness in such scenarios.
Follow Safe Trekking Rates
- Follow established trekking guidelines that require rest stops to prevent AMS in Nepal.
- Avoid rapid ascent, like on Kilimanjaro, which leads to higher fatalities from altitude sickness.