Broadcaster Noh Hong Chul is drawing attention after experiencing unusual symptoms during a climb in the Himalayas, which ultimately caused him to lose consciousness.

On the 23rd, a video titled "Noh Hong Chul's real fear of the Himalayas that almost killed him (Lee Siyoung, Kwon Eunbi sobbing)" was uploaded to the YouTube channel 'Noh Hongchul'. The video documents Noh Hongchul traveling to the Nepal Himalayas with actress Lee Siyoung and singer Kwon Eunbi.

Initially climbing with enthusiasm, Noh Hongchul expressed concerns about his health, saying, "I took it too lightly."

At an altitude of 3,200 meters, he began exhibiting unusual symptoms, including sudden confusion, drowsiness, and a nosebleed, before eventually collapsing. After regaining consciousness five hours later, Noh Hongchul explained, "I lost consciousness for a moment. I woke up in the morning and went for a walk, but my condition suddenly worsened. I kept eating something, and there was tremendous bubbling in my stomach."

He added, "There were 2.9 kilometers left to the accommodation, but I don’t remember anything. I was unconscious and faint. After that, I was hurriedly carried to a bed." Noh Hongchul also shared that someone massaged his body and checked on him with concern.

The cause of his collapse was identified as altitude sickness.

What is altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is an acute condition caused by the body’s inability to adapt to low oxygen levels at high altitudes of 2,400 meters or higher. It occurs due to improper fluid regulation caused by excessive perfusion pressure, capillary pressure from hypoxia, and microvascular leakage in the head and lungs.

Symptoms include headaches, vomiting, dizziness, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and decreased urine output. In severe cases, it can lead to loss of consciousness, coma, or even death from cerebral or pulmonary edema.

What to do if symptoms appear:

• Stop climbing and descend to a lower altitude.
• Maintain an acclimatization diet at the same altitude.
• For moderate or severe symptoms, descend immediately or seek medical attention.

Prevention tips for altitude sickness:

• Ascend slowly when climbing to high altitudes.
• Carry light luggage to reduce strain.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

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