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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Could an asthma drug stop High-Altitude lung swelling?
Prevention Recruiting nowThis study tests whether the asthma inhaler Advair HFA can prevent high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), a dangerous buildup of fluid in the lungs at high altitudes. Researchers will give the drug or a placebo to 60 healthy volunteers and people prone to HAPE, then measure their …
Phase 1/2 • Sponsor: University of Colorado, Denver • Aim: Prevention
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 07:51 UTC
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New oxygen method may speed recovery from High-Altitude lung condition
Symptom relief Recruiting nowThis study tests if a special high-flow oxygen mask works better than standard oxygen for people with high-altitude pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs from climbing too high too fast). About 200 adults who develop symptoms within 7 days of reaching high altitude will be randomly…
Sponsor: Third Military Medical University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Aug 13, 2026 00:00 UTC
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Mountain heart mystery: study probes right ventricle under low oxygen
Knowledge-focused Recruiting nowThis study looks at how the right side of the heart works when there is less oxygen, like at high altitudes. It involves 18 adults who have had HAPE (high-altitude pulmonary edema) in the past. Participants breathe special gas mixtures to mimic altitudes of 2,500 and 4,000 meters…
Sponsor: Mona Lichtblau • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:28 UTC