Chronic Mountain Sickness (CMS)
CMS develops in individuals who live for many months or years at altitudes above 10,000 feet (3,000 meters). CMS occurs because the body overcompensates for the lack of oxygen at high altitude by over producing red blood cells, causing the blood to thicken.
Quick Answer
What it is
CMS develops in individuals who live for many months or years at altitudes above 10,000 feet (3,000 meters). CMS occurs because the body overcompensates for the lack of oxygen at high altitude by over producing red blood cells, causing the blood to thicken.
Key findings
- Grade D: Blood glucose (Maca)
- Grade N/A: Blood Pressure (Maca)
- Grade N/A: Chronic Mountain Sickness Symptoms (Maca)
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
ℹ️ Quick Facts
Quick Facts: Chronic Mountain Sickness (CMS)
- Supplements Studied:1
- Research Trials:1
- Total Participants:197
- Top Supplement:Maca (D)
Evidence-Based Protocol
Supplement stack ranked by research quality
Primary Stack (Tier 1)
Paradoxically, iron deficiency can worsen CMS symptoms; however, iron repletion must be carefully balanced as excess worsens polycythemia
Supports bone health and immune function; deficiency common at altitude with reduced sun exposure; may support cardiovascular health
Supporting Stack (Tier 2)
May improve blood rheology (flow properties); anti-inflammatory effects
Antioxidant; may protect against oxidative stress from hypoxia
Supports cellular energy production under hypoxic conditions
Dietary nitrates may improve oxygen efficiency; studied at altitude for exercise performance
Improves microcirculation; has been studied for altitude-related symptoms
Combination of vitamins C, E, selenium to protect against hypoxia-induced oxidative stress
May improve blood flow and oxygen delivery; traditionally used at altitude in some cultures
How It Works
Chronic Mountain Sickness (CMS), also called Monge's disease, is a condition that affects people living at high altitudes (typically above 2,500-3,000 meters/8,000-10,000 feet) for extended periods. Unlike acute mountain sickness (which happens quickly at altitude), CMS develops over months to years and is characterized by excessive red blood cell production (polycythemia) as the body tries to compensate for low oxygen.
SYMPTOMS of CMS include:
CRITICAL: CMS is a serious condition that can lead to pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and stroke. Medical management is essential.
PRIMARY TREATMENT:
RISK FACTORS:
* Iron status is complex in CMS. Iron deficiency can worsen symptoms, but iron excess fuels red blood cell overproduction. Normal iron stores are the goal.
* Antioxidants (Vitamins C, E, CoQ10) may help with oxidative stress from chronic hypoxia.
* Omega-3 Fatty Acids may improve blood flow properties.
Expected timeline: CMS symptoms improve within days to weeks of descending to lower altitude. If descent is not possible, medical management and supplements may provide some support.
Supplements for Chronic Mountain Sickness (CMS)
Sorted by strength of evidence
Detailed Outcomes
Research Citations (13)
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