Malaysian tourist, 34, brain dead after 15-hour altitude sickness delay at Yulong Snow Mountain (5,596m). Immediate medical help critical.
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Source: OT-Team(G), China Press
A 34-year-old Malaysian woman has been declared brain dead after suffering severe altitude sickness during a trip to Yunnan Province in southwest.
Trip to Yulong Snow Mountain Turns Critical
According to available information, the woman traveled to China with two friends shortly after the Hari Raya holiday. The group arranged the journey independently, without a tour guide, and reportedly faced language barriers and limited local knowledge.
During their stay in Lijiang, they visited Yulong Snow Mountain, a popular but high-altitude destination. Prior to departure, the woman had already developed a cough, suspected to be linked to a lung infection, but chose to proceed with the trip.
Although she carried medication intended to prevent altitude sickness, sources familiar with the situation said she did not take it.
On the day of the climb, she began showing clear symptoms of altitude sickness at around 3 p.m. while descending. Instead of seeking immediate medical attention, she opted to rest and monitor her condition.
Condition Deteriorates After Delayed Treatment
The delay in treatment lasted approximately 15 hours. By the time she was admitted to hospital, her condition had become critical. Doctors reported that she was suffering from a high fever, pneumonia, and kidney failure, and had experienced cardiac arrest at one point.
Her family had already arrived in Lijiang by then. Medical staff have since declared her brain dead, while a higher-level medical team is expected to conduct further evaluation and attempt additional intervention. Family members reportedly broke down upon receiving the news.
A friend who accompanied her noted that she had washed her hair and taken a shower before the climb—activities that can pose additional risks at high altitude due to increased oxygen demand on the body.
High-Altitude Risks Often Underestimated
Yulong Snow Mountain reaches a maximum elevation of 5,596 meters above sea level. Even visitors using cable cars are transported directly to heights of around 4,500 meters.
For individuals accustomed to living at low altitudes, such rapid ascent can trigger acute altitude sickness, especially if they are already unwell. Medical experts generally advise against high-altitude travel for those experiencing symptoms such as colds, fever, respiratory issues, or for individuals with conditions like hypertension.
Altitude sickness can escalate quickly. Early symptoms—including headaches, shortness of breath, nausea, and fatigue—should be treated as warning signs. Immediate descent or medical assistance is strongly recommended, as delays can lead to life-threatening complications.
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