Can glucose drinks be used for altitude sickness?

Aug 31, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
In general, patients experiencing altitude sickness can drink glucose. In high-altitude areas, where oxygen levels are low, the body is prone to hypoxia, which may lead to symptoms of altitude sickness such as fatigue, dizziness, and palpitations. Consuming glucose can quickly provide energy to the body, compensating for the energy deficit caused by hypoxia, thus helping to alleviate discomforts like fatigue and dizziness.

In general, it is acceptable to consume glucose if experiencing altitude sickness. Specific details are as follows:

Due to the low oxygen levels in high-altitude areas, the body is prone to hypoxia, which can lead to symptoms of altitude sickness such as fatigue, dizziness, and palpitations. Drinking glucose can quickly supply energy to the body, compensating for the energy deficit caused by hypoxia. This helps alleviate discomforts like fatigue and dizziness, making individuals feel stronger and reducing the physical burden associated with altitude sickness to a certain extent.

Supplementing with glucose can also elevate blood sugar levels, thereby providing sufficient energy to vital organs such as the brain and heart, maintaining their normal functions, enhancing the body's adaptability to the hypoxic high-altitude environment, and reducing organ dysfunction caused by lack of oxygen.

However, the effectiveness of glucose in relieving altitude sickness is limited and cannot completely eliminate its symptoms. When at high altitudes, it is also important to get adequate rest, avoid strenuous exercise, receive oxygen therapy when necessary, and seek timely medical attention according to individual health conditions.