[High-altitude exposure in chronic lung deseases - fundamentals, current evidence, and practical recommendations].

Staying at moderate to high altitudes leads to hypobaric hypoxia due to the reduced atmospheric oxygen partial pressure, which can have clinically relevant effects in individuals with chronic respiratory diseases. This article summarizes current findings on altitude exposure in patients with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary vascular diseases (PVD), obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), interstitial lung diseases (ILD), and after lung transplantation. Pre-travel counseling should include functional testing, risk assessment, and preventive strategies. With appropriate preparation, altitude stays can be safe for many affected individuals.