Acute Mountain Sickness
Alternate Names : Altitude Illness
What can be done to prevent the condition?
The best way to prevent acute mountain sickness is to climb short distances when climbing to higher elevations. For example, if a person plans to travel from sea level to the mountains, it would be wise stop at a lower elevation for a couple of nights. After getting used to the higher elevation, the person then can travel to the full elevation. The following measures can be helpful in avoiding AMS:
avoiding medicines that cause drowsiness, such as sleeping pills
avoiding smoking and alcohol
drinking extra fluids
eating light meals with plenty of starch, or complex carbohydrates
taking gingko biloba, an antioxidant made from plants
Heavy exertion should be avoided, but complete rest is not recommended. Light outdoor activity is suggested. Extra sleep is not helpful, since sleeping slows breathing.
When climbing, especially in elevations above 8,000 feet, a person should look for signs of AMS. Symptoms may not be obvious in young, physically fit climbers. Each party member should be evaluated at the end of each day's climb after the person has rested for several minutes. The following factors should be evaluated:
heart rate
level of fatigue
lung function
performance
shortness of breath
weakness
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Once a person goes to a lower elevation, symptoms should improve. Acute mountain sickness usually resolves within 5 days if the person gets to a lower altitude and receives oxygen. If the person stays at the higher altitude, there is a risk of HACE and death.
What are the risks to others?
Acute mountain sickness is not contagious and poses no risk to others.
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