Lung function parameters are associated with acute mountain sickness and are improved at high and extreme altitude.

At altitude, factors such as decreased barometric pressure, low temperatures, and acclimatization might affect lung function. The effects of exposure and acclimatization to high-altitude on lung function were assessed in 39 subjects by repetitive spirometry up to 6022 m during a high-altitude expedition. Subjects were classified depending on the occurrence of acute mountain sickness (AMS) and summit success to evaluate whether lung function relates to successful climb and risk of developing AMS.