High altitude pulmonary edema
MONDO:0031257A rare pulmonary condition characterized by non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema occurring in otherwise healthy individuals within days of an ascent above 2500-3000 m. Early symptoms include exertional dyspnea, non-productive cough, chest tightness, and reduced exercise performance, followed by dyspnea at rest and possibly orthopnea, as well as gurgling in the chest and pink frothy sputum in advanced cases. Clinical signs are cyanosis, tachypnea, tachycardia, crackles or wheezing, and elevated body temperature (generally not exceeding 38.5°C). Signs of concomitant high-altitude cerebral edema may also be observed. Chest x-rays typically show patchy opacities predominantly in the right middle lobe.
38 clinical trials for this condition and its sub-types, 5 tagged with High altitude pulmonary edema itself.
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New hope for high altitude emergencies: study tests Life-Saving treatments
Disease control Not yet recruitingThis study aims to improve treatment for severe high altitude pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) and cerebral edema (brain swelling). Researchers will test breathing support devices and inhaled nitric oxide gas in over 3,000 patients in Tibet. The goal is to speed up recovery, …
Sponsor: Tibet Autonomous Region People's Hospital • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 13:07 UTC
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Could a tiny heart hole worsen altitude sickness?
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study looks at how a small opening in the heart, called a patent foramen ovale (PFO), affects blood flow and oxygen levels during exercise and simulated high altitude. About a third of people have this opening, which may allow oxygen-poor blood to mix with oxygen-rich blood,…
Sponsor: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Aug 05, 2026 00:00 UTC