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Answer:
The percentage of oxygen in the atmosphere at sea level is about 21% and the barometric pressure is around 1000mb (760 mmHg). As altitude increases, the percentage remains the same but the number of oxygen molecules per breath is reduced. At 3,600 metres (12,000 feet) the barometric pressure is only about 630 mb (480 mmHg), so there are roughly 40% fewer oxygen molecules per breath so the body must adjust to having less oxygen. In addition, the lower air pressure at high altitude can cause fluids to leak from the capillaries in both the lungs and the brain which can lead to a fluid build-up. Continuing on to higher altitude without proper acclimatisation can lead to the potentially serious, even life-threatening altitude sickness. The main cause of 'Altitude Sickness' is going too high too quickly. Some of the symptoms of this condition may include headaches, breathlessness, fatigue, nausea or vomiting, inability to sleep, swelling of the face, hands and feet.
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