Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), develops when you ascend too quickly to high altitudes. Your body struggles to adjust to the lower oxygen levels. Symptoms typically appear 6 to 24 hours after reaching a higher elevation.
Mild AMS presents with headache, fatigue, nausea, and dizziness. These symptoms are usually manageable with rest and descent. However, ignoring them can lead to more severe problems. Drinking plenty of water is crucial.
Moderate to severe AMS involves more intense symptoms. Expect increased nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, and shortness of breath even at rest. Severe cases can progress to High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which require immediate medical attention and descent.
HAPE manifests as a cough with pink or frothy sputum, shortness of breath, and wheezing. HACE presents with severe headache, altered mental state, confusion, ataxia (loss of coordination), and possibly loss of consciousness.
Recognizing these symptoms is key to preventing serious complications. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately. Seek medical assistance. Early intervention greatly improves your chances of a full recovery. Prevention strategies include acclimatization (ascending gradually) and hydration.
