ABSTRACT
A cluster of neurovascular signs and symptoms has been reported in mountaineers for many years. These vary from transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), often with symptoms of dysphasia or transient visual disturbance or even blindness, to longer lasting strokes with hemiplegia, etc. The problems usually occur after some time at altitude and so are not considered part of acute mountain sickness (AMS). The condition usually resolves rapidly and recurrence is unusual. However, few patients expose themselves to altitude risk again. Also reviewed in this chapter is the effect of altitude on factors involved in clotting, which in general seem little disturbed at altitude. Risk factors for thrombosis and mechanisms are discussed.
