Actually, I think the question is "would the same thing happen with similar intensity exercise at sea level?" Or walking around the block at altitude?
True, true. It’s all a continuum on some level, I guess.
Actually, I think the question is "would the same thing happen with similar intensity exercise at sea level?" Or walking around the block at altitude?
FWIW, I didn't really mean to suggest that this particular unfortunate man's death was caused by altitude. I have no idea about that. But the idea that fitness protects against altitude - that is a dangerous idea I wanted to contradict.
Actually it is the altitude and not being acclimatized to it. Once you are up and have adjusted your risks at sea level are the same as those in altitude, but until then the biggest issue is the altitude, underlying condition or not. Don’t forget at altitude there is less O2 and also less pressureThat was a conclusion you incorrectly jumped to from my post. My contention was that there were probably more factors at play than just altitude, as the circumstances most likely were insufficient to cause the death on their own.
I'd guess eventually, maybe just a few months later. Ones body can survive considerable stress if there is no underlying condition. If there is an underlying condition, maybe it is only a matter of time.Actually, I think the question is "would the same thing happen with similar intensity exercise at sea level?" Or walking around the block at altitude?
Dehydration is possible but not likely, over hydration is a more common problem nowadays.
How often do you hike in Colorado at high altitude?
I have never heard of an active person suffering from over hydration (water intoxication) in Colorado. Our dry air and altitude makes that extremely difficult and Hyponatremia is probably more likely than over hydration.
Hyponatremia (low sodium) can be caused by sweating alone but exacerbated by re-hydration with water only. Essentially diluting out the remaining sodium without replacing the electrolytes, ie salt, lost in the sweat. This is why many like Gatorade and similar for rehydration. Electrolyte replacement is probably not needed for routine exercise but for excessive exercise with excessive sweating is probably a good thing.