Saralnama15,000 ft is the altitude where a young trekker lost vision after hiking in Leh-Ladakh. Dr Ashish Markan, an eye surgeon, shared this case of High Altitude Retinopathy (HAR). The patient suffered from Central Retinal Artery Occlusion, a rare condition blocking blood supply to the retina. Dr Purendra Bhasin, an ophthalmologist, explains HAR occurs due to low oxygen and high blood pressure in retinal vessels. It affects 40-50% of high-altitude climbers, but few notice vision problems. Risk factors include rapid ascent, hypertension, diabetes, and pre-existing eye conditions. Symptoms are blurred vision, eye pain, and dark spots. Dr Bhasin advises gradual ascent, hydration, and UV-protective sunglasses. If symptoms appear, stop climbing and descend immediately. (Updated 27 Oct 2025, 19:49 IST; source: link)
Key Points
- 15,000 ft is the altitude where a young trekker lost vision after hiking in Leh-Ladakh
- Dr Ashish Markan, an eye surgeon, shared this case of High Altitude Retinopathy (HAR)
- The patient suffered from Central Retinal Artery Occlusion, a rare condition blocking blood supply to the retina